Imaging Techniques for Identifying Factors of Sudden Cardiac Death Risk

Launched by JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · Sep 13, 2005

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying new imaging techniques, specifically magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT), to better understand the risk factors for sudden cardiac death. Sudden cardiac death can happen to anyone and is becoming more common, but it’s often hard to know who is at the greatest risk. The researchers aim to find out if these imaging methods can help identify people who may be at higher risk for this serious event.

To participate in this study, individuals should be between 65 and 74 years old and have a specific heart condition where the heart's pumping ability is reduced (known as a left ventricular ejection fraction of 35% or lower). They also need to be planning to have a device called an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) put in for protection against sudden death. However, people who have a history of sudden death or cannot undergo an MRI due to certain medical devices (like a pacemaker) are not eligible. Participants can expect to undergo imaging tests and will contribute to important research that could help save lives in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility 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.)