Identifying heart structure predictors of sudden cardiac death

Left Ventricular Structural Predictors of Sudden Cardiac Death [Substudy of: Functional Energetics and Imaging for Phenotypic Characterization of Patients at Risk for Sudden Cardiac Death, See Also NCT000181233]

Observational Johns Hopkins University · NCT01076660

This study is trying to see if certain heart structure problems can help predict the risk of sudden cardiac death in patients with weak heart function who may need a defibrillator.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorJohns Hopkins University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Newark, Delaware and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT01076660 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the relationship between left ventricular structural abnormalities and the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients with low heart function. It aims to improve risk stratification for patients eligible for implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) by examining detailed cardiac magnetic resonance imaging data. The study focuses on patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 35% or less, who are referred for ICD insertion without a history of sustained ventricular arrhythmias. By identifying additional structural predictors, the study seeks to enhance the selection criteria for ICD therapy beyond current guidelines.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 to 80 with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 35% or less, referred for ICD insertion for primary prevention.

Not a fit: Patients who have contraindications to MRI, such as implanted metallic devices or severe heart failure, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better identification of patients at risk for sudden cardiac death, potentially improving treatment outcomes and reducing unnecessary complications from ICDs.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been limited cohort studies on this topic, this study represents a novel prospective approach to understanding SCD risk in a larger patient population.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* LVEF≤35%, referred clinically for ICD insertion for primary prevention purposes (i.e. no prior history of sustained ventricular arrhythmias)
* Between the ages of 21 and 80 years old
* Permission of the patient's clinical attending physician

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who refuse or are unable to give consent.
* Individuals with contraindications to MRI (i.e. implanted metallic objects such as pre-existing cardiac pacemakers, cerebral clips or indwelling metallic projectiles)
* Minors.
* Pregnant women.
* NYHA Class IV heart failure.
* Chronic renal insufficiency with creatinine clearance\<60 ml/min; acute renal insufficiency of any severity
* Claustrophobia
* Prior adverse reaction to gadolinium-based contrast

Where this trial is running

Newark, Delaware and 1 other locations

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.
Conditions Ischemic CardiomyopathyNonischemic CardiomyopathyIschemic cardiomyopathyNonischemic cardiomyopathyImplantable cardioverter defibrillatorSudden Cardiac DeathVentricular tachycardiaVentricular fibrillation
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.