Using Transesophageal Echocardiography for Cardiac Arrest Patients
Transesophageal Echocardiography in Pre-hospital Cardiac Arrest Patients; TAPCAP
This study is testing if a special ultrasound called Transesophageal Echocardiography can help doctors find out why some people have a cardiac arrest outside the hospital, to improve their chances of recovery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Far Eastern Memorial Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (New Taipei City) |
| Trial ID | NCT06672315 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the use of Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) in patients experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). It aims to determine the effectiveness of TEE in providing clear diagnostic images that can assist in identifying reversible causes of cardiac arrest, such as pericardial tamponade and pneumothorax. The study leverages the training of emergency medical technicians in Taiwan, who are equipped to perform ultrasound examinations in the pre-hospital setting. By comparing TEE with other imaging techniques, the study seeks to improve patient outcomes in emergency situations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have experienced an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest from a non-traumatic cause.
Not a fit: Patients who have obvious signs of death or have expressed a Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNR) order will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the management of cardiac arrest patients by providing timely and accurate diagnostic information.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown the feasibility and effectiveness of TEE in pre-hospital emergencies, indicating a promising approach for this patient population.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age ≥ 18 years 2. Patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) 3. Non-traumatic cause of cardiac arrest Exclusion Criteria: 1. Presence of obvious signs of death, such as decapitation, rigor mortis, livor mortis, or decomposition. 2. Family explicitly expresses a Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNR) order, or the patient has a documented refusal of resuscitation. 3. Any condition that contraindicates the use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), such as esophageal tumors, preventing probe insertion. 4. Patients eligible for ECPR (Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) treatment. 5. Spontaneous circulation has already been stabilized before performing TEE.
Where this trial is running
New Taipei City
- Far Eastern Memorinal Hospital and New Taipei City fire department — New Taipei City, Taiwan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jen-Tang Sun
- Email: femhresearch@gmail.com
- Phone: +886 2 77281843
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.