Using advanced CT imaging to improve coronary bypass surgery decisions

Comprehensive CT Guided Coronary Bypass Graft Surgery

Observational Stanford University · NCT03894423

This study is testing if using advanced CT scans can help doctors make better decisions about coronary bypass surgery for patients with heart issues.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages40 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorStanford University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsRadiation
Locations3 sites (Palo Alto, California and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03894423 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to enhance decision-making for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery by integrating noninvasive CT angiography and perfusion imaging with advanced image processing techniques. It focuses on developing tools that assess vessel-specific ischemia and predict myocardial perfusion restoration post-surgery. The study will analyze clinical, surgical, and imaging variables to evaluate the effectiveness of CT-guided CABG compared to standard care. The ultimate goal is to improve surgical strategies and patient outcomes through better-informed revascularization decisions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 40 and older who are scheduled for elective CABG due to coronary artery disease.

Not a fit: Patients with unstable clinical conditions, significant arrhythmias, or those who cannot undergo cardiac CT due to technical limitations may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more effective CABG procedures and improved heart function for patients with coronary artery disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for surgical decision-making, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Planned elective CABG for coronary artery disease.
* CABG is the primary indication for surgery (but may include treatment of mild-moderate valvular disease).
* Age: ≥40 years.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Technical feasibility of the cardiac CT exams: redo-CABG, significant arrhythmia/mal-conduction, congenital conditions, severe valvular disease or cardiomyopathy (to the extent that the CT acquisition is technically challenged), inadequate understanding of the English language (to provide consent or follow instructions during the exams).
* Overall safety: unstable clinical condition (clinical heart failure, unstable angina, myocardial infarction \<1 month prior).
* Radiation risk: pregnancy (cannot be ruled out), body weight \>100kg.
* CT contrast medium-related: known allergy, renal failure
* Vasodilator related: known allergy, bronchial asthma requiring daily use of bronchodilators, Mobitz II or 3rd degree AV block, sick sinus node disease, clinically significant carotid artery narrowing, severe aortic stenosis or LVOT narrowing, systolic blood pressure below 90mmHg, (continued) use of dipyridamole or aminophylline.
* Inability to provide informed consent.

Where this trial is running

Palo Alto, California and 2 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 CADAtheroscleroses, CoronaryComputed TomographyCoronary Artery Bypass
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.