Not yet recruitingPHASE2INTERVENTIONAL

LVT DURATION: Pilot Study of Anticoagulation Duration for Left Ventricular Thrombus

This pioneering study, called LVT DURATION, is exploring the ideal length of time people with a clot in the heart's main pumping chamber (left ventricular thrombus) should take blood-thinning medication like rivaroxaban, apixaban, or warfarin. It's a 'pilot' study, meaning its main goal is to test how feasible it is to conduct a larger, more definitive study in the future. Participants will either continue their prescribed blood thinner or stop taking it for the rest of the study. The findings will help doctors understand common heart conditions better and guide future research into the most effective and safest treatment durations for patients.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

PHASE2

Sponsor

Queen Mary University of London

Enrolment target

120

Start

01 Dec 2026

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2027

Left Ventricular Thrombus

What is this study about?

This study, called LVT DURATION, is looking into how long people should take blood-thinning medication after they've been diagnosed with a clot in their heart's main pumping chamber, known as a left ventricular thrombus. Currently, there isn't a clear answer about the best length of time to take these medicines, and this study aims to gather important information to help answer that question.

This is a 'pilot study', which means it's a smaller-scale research project designed to test the waters before a much larger study. Researchers want to see if it's practical to recruit enough people, keep them involved in the study, and measure the results effectively. This helps them work out any challenges or difficulties they might face in a bigger study.

The ultimate goal is to find out the safest and most effective duration of blood-thinning treatment for left ventricular thrombus. This information is crucial because taking blood thinners for too long might increase the risk of bleeding, while stopping them too soon might increase the risk of another clot or stroke. By understanding the ideal treatment length, doctors can make better decisions to protect patients' health.

Key takeaways

This study investigates the best duration for blood thinners for a heart clot.
It's a pilot study to plan for a bigger research project in the future.
Participants will either continue or stop their prescribed blood thinner.
Blood thinners like rivaroxaban, apixaban, or warfarin are being studied.
The goal is to improve treatment for left ventricular thrombus.

Who may be eligible?

To be considered for this study, you would need to have been diagnosed with a clot in your heart's main pumping chamber (left ventricular thrombus) within the last 12 months. You should already be taking apixaban, a type of blood thinner, and have been on blood-thinning treatment for at least three months for this condition. Additionally, either your clot should still be present, or your heart's pumping function is still affected.

There are certain reasons why you might not be able to participate. For example, if your doctor believes you need to take blood thinners for other long-term health reasons, or if you've had a stroke or similar event since your clot was diagnosed. Also, if taking blood thinners would be harmful for you, or if your heart problem isn't due to a specific type of heart muscle disease (non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy), you wouldn't be eligible.

Finally, you must be aged 18 or over and be able to understand and agree to take part in the study yourself.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I was diagnosed with a heart clot (LV thrombus) in the last year.
I've been on blood thinners for at least 3 months for this clot.
I am currently taking apixaban for my heart clot.
My heart clot is still present, or my heart function is still affected.
I am 18 years old or older.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, after some initial checks, you will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. This means it's like flipping a coin to decide which group you're in. One group will continue taking their prescribed blood-thinning medication (rivaroxaban, apixaban, or warfarin) for the rest of the study period. The other group will stop taking their blood-thinning medication for the rest of the study period. The study team will explain everything clearly, and you will have regular check-ups to monitor your health and the effects of stepping down treatment. The total duration of your participation would depend on how long the study runs, but you would be monitored throughout that time.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in a study like this helps researchers learn more about how best to treat heart conditions, which could benefit future patients. For you, there's a chance you might experience benefits from finding the optimal treatment duration. However, there are potential risks, such as the possibility of bleeding if you continue blood thinners, or the risk of a new clot or stroke if you stop. The study team will carefully monitor you for any side effects. Remember, participating is entirely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this won't affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

St Bartholomews Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is a left ventricular thrombus?

It's a blood clot that forms in the heart's main pumping chamber (the left ventricle).

What are blood thinners?

These are medicines, like rivaroxaban or apixaban, that help prevent blood clots from forming or getting larger.

Why is this a 'pilot study'?

It's a smaller study to test if a larger study on the same topic would be practical and successful.

Will I know if I'm continuing or stopping my blood thinner?

Yes, once you're randomly assigned, you'll know which group you're in and whether you're continuing or stopping the medication.

What happens if I change my mind about participating?

You can withdraw from the study at any time, and it won't affect your regular medical care.

How to find out more

Dr Dan Jones

dan.jones8@nhs.net 02037658707 Official trial record

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