Using targeted radiation to treat heart rhythm problems
StereoTactic Ablative RadioTherapy of Cardiac Arrhythmias (START-CA): a Phase II Trial of Non-Invasive Treatment of Medically Refractory Patients
NA · University Health Network, Toronto · NCT04843683
This study is testing whether a special type of targeted radiation can help people with tough heart rhythm problems that haven’t improved with regular treatments.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto (other) |
| Drugs / interventions | Radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT04843683 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial evaluates the safety and effectiveness of stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SBRT) for patients suffering from refractory cardiac arrhythmias who have not responded to standard treatments. Conducted at the University Health Network, it aims to monitor cardiac outcomes in these patients after receiving SBRT. The study is designed as a prospective, single-center phase II trial, focusing on a specific patient population with challenging heart rhythm issues.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients with arrhythmias who have not responded to standard medications or have undergone at least one invasive catheter ablation.
Not a fit: Patients who have previously received high-dose radiotherapy to the target area or have contraindications to radiotherapy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a new treatment option for patients with refractory arrhythmias who have limited alternatives.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of SBRT in this context is relatively novel, similar approaches in other areas of oncology have shown promising results.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients with heart rate and rhythm condition (arrhythmia) who have failed standard of care treatment with medication OR at least one prior invasive catheter ablation procedure. * Patients deemed medically fit to receive stereotactic ablative radiotherapy as determined by their Radiation Oncologist. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients who have previously received high dose radiotherapy to the target area and cannot safely receive further treatment OR are unable to receive radiotherapy due to other contraindications.
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario
- Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Benjamin Lok, MD
- Email: benjamin.lok@rmp.uhn.ca
- Phone: 416-946-2919
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.
Conditions: Cardiac Arrhythmia