RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

High Frame Rate Ultrasound in Heart Disease Assessment

This research wants to find out if a newer type of heart scan, called 'high frame rate ultrasound,' can provide more useful information than the standard ultrasound scan. Doctors are looking to see if these high-speed images help them understand heart conditions better. The study will involve two groups of people: those who already have heart disease or are thought to be at low risk of developing it. Participants will have both standard ultrasound and the new high frame rate ultrasound, sometimes with a special contrast dye, to help doctors see the heart more clearly. The aim is to improve how heart disease is assessed and managed in the future.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

London North West Healthcare NHS Trust

Enrolment target

Start

01 Feb 2022

Estimated completion

30 Sep 2025

Coronary Artery Disease

What is this study about?

Doctors often use ultrasound scans, also known as echocardiograms, to look at the heart. These scans use sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart, helping to check its shape, how well it's pumping, and if there are any problems.

This study is comparing the usual ultrasound scans with a newer, faster type called 'high frame rate ultrasound.' Think of it like comparing a standard video camera to a high-speed camera. The high-speed camera can capture more images per second, which might give doctors an even clearer and more detailed view of how the heart is working, especially when it's under stress or moving quickly. The aim is to see if this extra detail can help them understand heart conditions like coronary artery disease better.

Researchers hope that if high frame rate ultrasound proves to be more informative, it could improve how heart disease is diagnosed and monitored in the future. This could lead to more accurate assessments and potentially better treatment plans for patients.

Key takeaways

Compares standard heart scans with a new high-speed method.
Aims to improve how heart disease is assessed.
Involves detailed ultrasound scans, sometimes with a special dye.
Includes a stress test with medication to see how the heart performs.
Looks for volunteers with or without known coronary heart disease.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you would need to be at least 18 years old. The study is particularly looking for people who either already have heart disease (specifically if blockages in your heart arteries have been found, or if previous tests showed problems with blood flow or heart movement during a stress test). Alternatively, they are also looking for people who have a very low chance of having heart disease, to compare results.

There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you can't have a specific type of stress test, if you have certain severe heart valve problems, or if you have serious lung conditions like severe COPD. Other reasons include having an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation, being pregnant or breastfeeding, or having an allergy to the special dye (Sonovue) used in the scans. Additionally, if you have very low blood pressure, certain types of heart block (unless you have a pacemaker), or other specific health issues like Myasthenia Gravis or severe asthma, you wouldn't be able to take part.

Quick self-check

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you have confirmed coronary artery disease OR are considered at low risk of heart disease?
Can you have a stress test, or do you have a pacemaker if needed for heart block?
Are you NOT pregnant or breastfeeding, and no known allergy to Sonovue?
Do you NOT have severe heart valve issues or serious lung conditions like severe COPD or asthma?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll first have a small tube (cannula) put into a vein in your arm. You'll then have two different ultrasound machines used to scan your heart. First, standard pictures will be taken. Then, a special dye will be injected through the tube in your arm, and more ultrasound pictures will be taken using both machines to see your heart more clearly. After this, you'll be given a medication called dipyridamole through your vein, which helps to stress your heart mildly in a controlled way, similar to exercise. While your heart is under this mild stress, the contrast dye will be given again, and more ultrasound pictures will be taken with both machines. The total duration of your participation would be for this one visit.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may not directly benefit you, but the information gained could help doctors better understand and treat heart disease for future patients. There are some potential risks, including discomfort from the IV cannula, side effects from the contrast dye (for which you'll be checked for allergies), and possible reactions to the stress medication like chest pain or changes in blood pressure, though these will be closely monitored. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it won't affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust
Harrow, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'high frame rate ultrasound'?

It's a newer type of ultrasound that takes many more pictures per second than standard ultrasound, potentially giving a clearer view of your heart's movement.

Will I receive extra treatment if I join?

This study is for research and observation; it will not offer extra treatment beyond typical care, though findings might help future patients.

What is the 'contrast agent'?

It's a special dye called Sonovue, injected into your vein, which helps make the ultrasound images of your heart clearer.

What is dipyridamole for?

Dipyridamole is a medication given to gently 'stress' your heart, similar to exercise, so doctors can see how it works under different conditions.

How long will the appointment take?

The study involves a single visit where all the scans and procedures will be completed.

How to find out more

Emma Howard, MSc

emma.howard16@nhs.net +442088692547 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.