Using PPG to Predict Heart Function in the General Population

Photoplethysmography (PPG) to Predict Ejection Fraction and Other Echographic Data in the General Population

Observational Tulane University · NCT04843371

This study is testing if a wristband can help predict heart function in adults by comparing its readings with traditional heart scans.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 120 Years
SexAll
SponsorTulane University Academic / other
Locations3 sites (New Orleans, Louisiana and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04843371 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the relationship between ejection fraction (EF) measured by echocardiography and signals obtained from Photoplethysmography (PPG) in individuals aged 18 and older. Participants scheduled for an echocardiogram at Tulane University's outpatient cardiology clinic will have their demographics, health habits, and medical history collected. During the echocardiogram, PPG recordings will be taken simultaneously using a Biostrap wristband. The study seeks to develop a predictive model for estimating ventricular ejection fraction based on PPG signals, potentially offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional echocardiography.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are scheduled for an echocardiogram at Tulane Medical Center.

Not a fit: Patients under 18, those with cognitive impairments, or individuals unable to wear the Biostrap device will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-invasive method for estimating heart function, improving patient access to cardiac assessments.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of PPG in cardiac assessments is emerging, this specific approach to predict ejection fraction is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Male or Female aged18 years or older.
* Patients scheduled to undergo an echocardiogram at Tulane Medical Center.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Participants under 18 years of age.
* Participants with cognitive impairments.
* Participants with a physical inability to wear the Biostrap during the echocardiogram.
* Individuals who cannot read, speak, and/or understand English.

Where this trial is running

New Orleans, Louisiana 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 Valvular Heart DiseasePericardial DiseaseCardiomyopathiesStructural heart diseasePhotoplethysmographyEjection Fraction
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.