Using imaging techniques to identify risks for sudden cardiac death
Functional Energetics and Imaging for Phenotypic Characterization of Patients at Risk for Sudden Cardiac Death
This study is testing if advanced imaging techniques like MRI and CT can help identify heart disease patients who are at high risk for sudden cardiac death and might benefit from an implantable defibrillator.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 400 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Johns Hopkins University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Baltimore, Maryland) |
| Trial ID | NCT00181233 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the effectiveness of advanced imaging techniques, specifically magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT), in identifying patients at high risk for sudden cardiac death. It focuses on individuals with heart disease and a weakened heart muscle who are scheduled for implantation of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). By assessing the electrical activity of the heart through these imaging methods, the study seeks to determine which patients are most likely to benefit from the ICD's electrical response. The findings could lead to better risk stratification and management of patients with heart conditions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 35% or less who are scheduled for ICD implantation for primary prevention.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of sudden death or contraindications to MRI will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve the identification of patients at high risk for sudden cardiac death, leading to more targeted and effective interventions.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored imaging techniques for cardiac risk assessment, but this specific approach is novel in its focus on sudden cardiac death risk prediction.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Left ventricular ejection fraction \<or = 35% * Planned implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation for clinical indications (primary prevention) Exclusion Criteria: * History of sudden death (secondary prevention) * Contraindication to undergoing MRI (metallic implant, pacemaker, etc.)
Where this trial is running
Baltimore, Maryland
- Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions — Baltimore, Maryland, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Katherine C Wu, MD — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Barbara Butcher, RN
- Email: bbutche1@jhmi.edu
- Phone: 443-287-3472
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.