Advanced Cardiac Imaging To Predict Embolic Stroke On Brain MRI: A Pilot Study

Launched by TULANE UNIVERSITY · Feb 23, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called "Advanced Cardiac Imaging To Predict Embolic Stroke On Brain MRI," aims to better understand how certain heart conditions might lead to strokes in people who do not have a history of atrial fibrillation (a common heart rhythm disorder). The researchers are using advanced imaging techniques to identify individuals at high risk for embolic strokes, which are strokes caused by blood clots that travel from the heart to the brain. By pinpointing these risks, the study hopes to improve future strategies for preventing strokes, particularly for those with specific health conditions.

To participate in this study, individuals must be at least 18 years old, have a CHA2DS2VASC score of 3 or higher (a tool used to assess stroke risk), and have a history of type II diabetes or heart failure. Importantly, participants should not have a history of atrial fibrillation or have suffered a stroke in the last 30 days. Individuals who join the study will undergo advanced imaging tests to help researchers gather data on the link between heart health and stroke risk. It’s important to note that some individuals, such as those with certain medical conditions or who are pregnant, may not be eligible to participate.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Male or female patients
• • 18 Years and older
• • No history of atrial fibrillation
• • CHA2DS2VASC score ≥3
• • History pf type II diabetes
• • History of congestive heart failure or a history of transient ischemic attack (TIA)/stroke without an otherwise defined stroke etiology such as large vessel or small vessel disease
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • History of atrial fibrillation
• • Patients who had a clinically symptomatic acute stroke within the last 30-days
• • Any health-related gadolinium/MRI contraindication (including previous allergic reaction to Gadolinium, pacemakers, defibrillators, other devices/implants contraindicated for MRI)
• • Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) cutoff in patients with Chronic kidney disease (CKD) where gadolinium cannot be used equals an eGFR \<30 ml/min
• • Weighing \> 300 lbs (as CMR image quality decreases due to increased body mass index)
• • Current pregnancy or breastfeeding
• • Cognitive impairment preventing the patient from giving an informed consent