Understanding heart dysfunction in critically ill patients

Aetiology and Clinical Importance of Acute Cardiac Dysfunction in Critical Illness

Observational Sahlgrenska University Hospital · NCT05860504

This study looks at how heart problems affect critically ill patients with multiple organ failure to see how it impacts their recovery and long-term health.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment592 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorSahlgrenska University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Västra Frölunda, Please Select)
Trial IDNCT05860504 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the incidence and impact of cardiac dysfunction on short- and long-term outcomes in critically ill patients experiencing multi-organ failure. It will explore the pathogenesis of cardiac dysfunction and identify key molecules associated with this condition. The study will utilize echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and coronary CT to gather data on patients admitted to the ICU with significant organ dysfunction. By analyzing these factors, the research seeks to enhance understanding of heart failure in critical illness.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 years old who are admitted to the ICU within 24 hours and exhibit significant dysfunction in at least two organ systems.

Not a fit: Patients who do not undergo echocardiographic examination or retract consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management and treatment strategies for critically ill patients with cardiac dysfunction.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research on cardiac dysfunction in critical illness, existing studies suggest that left ventricular dysfunction is common and associated with higher mortality, indicating potential for impactful findings.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients aged \> 18 years
2. Admitted to a participating ICU within 24 hours
3. Significant organ dysfunction involving at least two organ systems. This is defined as fulfilling both of the following:

   * At least 4 points on the SOFA scale (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scale)
   * Having at least 1 point on the SOFA scale from at least two organ systems
4. Given informed consent from patient or permission to participate from next of kin

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Echocardiographic examination not possible (e.g., pneumothorax, draping etc) or very low echocardiographic examination quality
2. Not being examined with echocardiography within 24 hours from inclusion
3. Retracted consent to participate

Where this trial is running

Västra Frölunda, Please Select

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 Multi Organ FailureLeft Ventricular DysfunctionRight Ventricular DysfunctionTako Tsubo CardiomyopathyMyocardial InfarctionCardiomyopathy, Stress
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.