Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 and up Women only

Predicting preeclampsia early using arterial stiffness in high-risk pregnancies

Official title: Early Prediction of Preeclampsia Using arteriaL Stiffness in High-risk prEgnancies; a Multinational Study (PULSE)

Run by McGill University Health Centre/Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre · NCT04783597 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new way to spot early signs of preeclampsia in high-risk pregnancies by measuring how stiff blood vessels are, along with other tests, to help improve care for moms and babies.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years and up
SexWomen only
Enrollment2400 (estimated)
SponsorMcGill University Health Centre/Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Montreal, Quebec)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJuly 12, 2021
Main results expectedJanuary 2026
Study endsJanuary 2027
Registry record updatedApril 18, 2025
Trial IDNCT04783597 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are pregnant women with singleton pregnancies who have at least one high-risk factor or two moderate-risk factors for preeclampsia.

Probably not a fit

Patients who are beyond 14 weeks gestation, have multiple pregnancies, or have a history of heart disease or infectious diseases 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 observational study aims to improve early detection of preeclampsia (PE) in high-risk pregnancies by utilizing a non-invasive test to measure arterial stiffness, alongside blood biomarkers and ultrasound imaging. The study will recruit 2400 participants across multiple sites in Canada, the US, and the UK, conducting assessments in both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. By identifying early signs of PE, the study seeks to develop strategies for better management and prevention of this serious condition. The findings could lead to significant advancements in maternal health care.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier identification and management of preeclampsia, potentially reducing maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.

How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using non-invasive measures for predicting preeclampsia, but this approach is among the most comprehensive and multi-national efforts to date.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Singleton pregnancy
* Presence of at least 1 high-risk factor or 2 moderate-risk factors for pre-eclampsia

Exclusion Criteria:

* \>14 weeks gestation
* Multiple pregnancy
* History of heart disease, stroke, or peripheral arterial disease
* Infectious diseases/conditions, such as Hepatitis B/C, HIV, and COVID19

Where it's running

  • Royal Victoria Hospital
    Montreal, Quebec, Canada
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Stella S Daskalopoulou, MD, PhD — Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre
  • Study coordinator: Helena Papacostas, PhD
  • Email: helena.papacostas@rimuhc.ca
  • Phone: 514 934-1934

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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  • Internal jugular vein collapsibility to gauge volume status in preeclampsia vs. normal pregnancy

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.