Improving heart function in patients with LVAD support
Official title: Sequential Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) Unloading and Conditioning to Induce Sustained Cardiac Recovery
Run by University of Utah · NCT03238690 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if gradually reducing the speed of a heart pump can help improve heart function and quality of life for people with severe heart failure who are using a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD).
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Utah Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Salt Lake City, Utah) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 23, 2017 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2028 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | August 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT03238690 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are patients diagnosed with heart failure who are undergoing LVAD implantation as a bridge to transplant.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are unwilling to provide consent or have experienced adverse events leading to hospitalization during the unloading phase may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the potential recovery of heart function in patients with end-stage heart failure who are supported by a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD). It employs a myocardial conditioning protocol that gradually reduces LVAD speed to increase the workload on the heart, potentially improving its function. The study aims to explore how this approach can reverse chronic left ventricular remodeling and enhance the quality of life for these patients. Previous studies suggest that such interventions may lead to significant improvements in heart function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved heart function and quality of life for patients with end-stage heart failure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise with similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel intervention.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed with heart failure undergoing LVAD implantation as a bridge to transplant * Enrolled in the Effects of Mechanical Unloading on Myocardial Function and Structure study (IRB 30622) Exclusion Criteria: * Neither the subject nor the subject's representative is willing to provide written consent for participation * Subjects with adverse events leading to hospitalization during the optimum unloading phase are excluded from participation in the controlled reloading phase
Where it's running
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University of Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Stavros Drakos, MD — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: John Kirk
- Email: john.kirk@hsc.utah.edu
- Phone: 801-585-2944
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.