Validation of a new method to assess heart tissue using CT scans

Validation of Quantitative Myocardial Tissue Characterization Through Contrast-enhanced Non-gated CT Versus CMR: The VALETUDO-CT Study

NA · IRCCS Policlinico S. Donato · NCT04880317

This study is testing a new CT scan method to see how well it can measure heart tissue changes in patients, especially those who have had COVID-19.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment188 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorIRCCS Policlinico S. Donato (other)
Locations1 site (San Donato Milanese, Milano)
Trial IDNCT04880317 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to validate a non-gated computed tomography myocardial relative enhancement (CT-MRE) technique for estimating myocardial extracellular volume (ECV) by comparing it to cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) results. Patients scheduled for contrast-enhanced cardiac CT will be invited to participate and undergo additional imaging and blood tests. The study also seeks to explore myocardial alterations in patients previously infected with COVID-19. Participants will be monitored for various biomarkers related to myocardial fibrosis and ECV.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 80 who are scheduled for contrast-enhanced cardiac CT.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to CMR, severe obesity, or those who cannot undergo the required imaging procedures may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this method could provide a non-invasive way to assess heart tissue health, improving diagnosis and management of cardiac diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in using imaging techniques for cardiac assessment, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients referred for contrast-enhanced cardiac CT
* Age 18 to 80 years

Exclusion Criteria:

* Absolute contraindications to CMR
* Implantable cardioverter defibrillators and ferromagnetic thoracic devices which may cause artifacts at magnetic resonance imaging
* Previous allergic reactions to gadolinium-based contrast agents
* Pregnancy
* Severe obesity
* Severe claustrophobia
* Too low image quality to perform post-processing analyses

Where this trial is running

San Donato Milanese, Milano

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Cardiac Disease, Covid19, Cardiotoxicity, Extracellular Space Alteration, Tomography X-Ray Computed, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Extracellular Space

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.