Investigating brain volume changes in heart failure patients
Brain Volume and Cardiac Function in Heart Failure
This study is testing how heart failure affects brain size and function in people with weakened hearts to see if there’s a link to thinking problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Johns Hopkins University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Baltimore, Maryland and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06623344 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines the relationship between brain volume and cardiac function in patients with heart failure. Utilizing advanced imaging techniques like Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMR), the research aims to identify structural brain alterations and their potential links to cognitive decline in heart failure patients. The study focuses on individuals with an ejection fraction below 50%, assessing how cardiac dysfunction may impact cerebral blood flow and brain health. By understanding these connections, the study seeks to enhance the management of heart failure and its neurological implications.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 21 and older with heart failure and an ejection fraction below 50%.
Not a fit: Patients with severe claustrophobia or those with certain medical devices may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved strategies for managing cognitive decline in heart failure patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated structural brain changes in heart failure patients, suggesting that this approach is building on established findings rather than being entirely novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals with an ejection fraction (EF) below 50% who are willing to * provide informed consent. * Not claustrophobia. * Age: 21 years and above. * Ambulatory patients are eligible. Exclusion Criteria: * Known allergy to gadolinium contrast agents * Metal fragments in eyes, brain, or spinal cord * Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 45 mL/min (using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) * Pregnancy * Internal electrical devices, such as cochlear implant, spinal cord stimulator, pacemaker, or defibrillator * Presence of any other history or condition that the investigator feels would be problematic * Severe claustrophobia * Weight exceeding 300 lbs. (MRI table weight restrictions)
Where this trial is running
Baltimore, Maryland and 1 other locations
- Johns Hopkins Center for Advanced Imaging and Research Science, Johns Hopkins Science + Technology Park at 1812 Ashland Avenue, Baltimore, MD — Baltimore, Maryland, United States (Recruiting)
- Johns Hopkins Hospital — Baltimore, Maryland, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Joao AC Lima, MD — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Joao Lima, MD
- Email: jlima@jhmi.edu
- Phone: 410-614-1284
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.