RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

CMR Versus CT in Coronary Artery Disease

The CONCORD study is looking at how well two types of scans, called MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) scans, can find blockages in the heart's blood vessels. These blockages are known as coronary artery disease. If you have chest pain and your doctor is considering a heart procedure, you might be suitable for this study. The researchers want to see which scan gives the most accurate results when compared to an internal heart test. By understanding which scans work best, doctors can make better decisions about care for people with suspected heart problems, potentially avoiding unnecessary procedures. It aims to improve how we diagnose heart conditions.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Leicester

Enrolment target

300

Start

05 Nov 2020

Estimated completion

30 Nov 2025

Coronary Artery Disease

What is this study about?

Heart disease, where the blood vessels supplying your heart become narrowed or blocked, is a common condition. When doctors suspect you might have this, they often recommend further tests to understand what's going on. This study, called CONCORD, is looking at how two different types of scans can help. One is an MRI scan, which uses strong magnets and radio waves, and the other is a CT scan, which uses X-rays. Both scans can show pictures of your heart and its blood vessels.

The main goal of the CONCORD study is to compare these MRI and CT scans to see how good they are at finding significant narrowing in your heart's arteries. They're doing this by comparing the scan results against a special internal heart test called invasive FFR, which is considered very accurate. Doctors already know that CT scans are good at ruling out heart disease, but sometimes they can suggest a problem when there isn't one. Adding an extra measurement to the CT scan, called CT-FFR, can make it more accurate. MRI scans can also be very helpful in showing how well blood flows through your heart.

By taking part, you would help researchers understand which scanning method gives the clearest and most accurate picture of your heart's health. This information is really important because it could help doctors choose the best way to diagnose and plan treatment for patients with suspected heart disease in the future. The study hopes to improve how we identify serious blockages, which could mean fewer people need invasive procedures unless absolutely necessary.

Key takeaways

This study compares MRI and CT scans for diagnosing heart disease.
It aims to find the best way to detect heart problems accurately.
Your participation could help improve future patient care.
You would receive both an MRI and a CT heart scan.
It's for adults with chest pain who are already having a specific heart procedure.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or older who are scheduled to have an invasive heart procedure because they've been experiencing chest pain. This procedure is usually done to get a closer look at the heart's blood vessels.

However, there are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you've had a heart attack or similar serious heart event in the last six months, or if you've previously had a bypass operation on your heart. People who are very claustrophobic, have certain types of irregular heartbeats, or severe lung conditions like asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) might not be suitable.

Also, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or could become pregnant, you won't be able to take part. There are also checks for kidney function and if you have certain metal implants in your body (unless they are known to be safe for MRI scans) or allergies to materials used in the scans, you wouldn't be eligible.

Quick self-check

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you scheduled for an invasive heart procedure due to chest pain?
Have you had a heart attack or bypass surgery in the last 6 months?
Are you pregnant, breastfeeding, or could you be pregnant?
Do you have severe claustrophobia or certain heart/lung conditions?

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 in the CONCORD study, you will have both an MRI scan and a CT scan of your heart. These scans are done to get detailed pictures of your heart and its blood vessels. You may also undergo the special invasive heart test (FFR) that your doctor has already planned for you, which will be used to compare the scan results. A smaller group of participants might have an additional, faster MRI scan for comparison purposes. The study does not involve taking any new medications, but you will receive substances (contrast dyes) during your scans to help get clearer images. You will have a few visits for tests and scans, and the total time you are involved will depend on your individual schedule, but typically involves a few appointments around the time of your planned heart procedure and a follow-up.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could help improve how doctors diagnose heart conditions in the future, which is a potential benefit for many patients. You might also gain a more detailed understanding of your own heart health. As with any medical procedure, there are some small risks. These mainly relate to the scans themselves, such as potential reactions to the contrast dye used during CT and MRI scans, or the slight discomfort of having an MRI if you feel confined in small spaces. The invasive heart test carries its own small risks, but this is a procedure you would be having anyway. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Glenfield Hospital
Leicester, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is coronary artery disease?

It's when the blood vessels that supply your heart become narrowed or blocked, which can lead to chest pain or other heart problems.

What are MRI and CT scans?

MRI uses magnets and radio waves, while CT uses X-rays, both to create detailed images of your insides, like your heart.

Will I get my scan results?

The study collects information, but your doctors will discuss all relevant test results with you as part of your usual care.

Do I have to pay to join?

No, participating in a research study in the NHS is free. Any procedures related to the study are covered.

How long will the study last for me?

You'll have a few appointments for scans and tests, usually around the time of your planned heart procedure. The total involvement is relatively short-term.

How to find out more

Jayanth Arnold

jra14@le.ac.uk 0300 303 1573 Official trial record

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