Evaluating fetal heart rhythms using magnetocardiography

Electrophysiology of Fetal Arrhythmia

University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT03047161

This study is testing a new way to check fetal heart rhythms using a special technique called magnetocardiography to see if it works better than traditional ultrasound for pregnant people.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment450 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity of Wisconsin, Madison (other)
Locations1 site (Madison, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT03047161 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the use of fetal magnetocardiography (fMCG) as a novel technique for evaluating normal and abnormal fetal heart rate and rhythm patterns. Currently, ultrasound is the primary method for studying fetal anatomy, but it has limitations in assessing cardiac rhythm. The study will involve pregnant individuals with uncomplicated pregnancies over 12 weeks gestation or those at risk of fetal arrhythmia after 15 weeks. The research will be conducted at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, utilizing advanced facilities for this purpose.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include pregnant individuals with uncomplicated pregnancies over 12 weeks or those experiencing abnormal fetal heart rates after 15 weeks.

Not a fit: Patients with uncomplicated pregnancies under 12 weeks or those with abnormal fetal heart rates before 15 weeks may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more accurate method for monitoring fetal heart conditions, leading to better outcomes for affected pregnancies.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel in the context of fetal arrhythmia, similar techniques have shown promise in other areas of cardiac monitoring.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* uncomplicated pregnancy at gestational age \>12 weeks
* pregnancy complicated by abnormal fetal heart rate or rhythm or risk of abnormal fetal heart rate or rhythm at gestational age \>15 weeks

Exclusion Criteria:

* uncomplicated pregnancy \<12 weeks gestation
* pregnancy complicated by abnormal fetal heart rate or rhythm or risk of abnormal fetal heart rate or rhythm at gestational age \<15 weeks

Where this trial is running

Madison, Wisconsin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Fetal Arrhythmia, magnetocardiography

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.