Measurement Of NT-proBNP to Predict Outcomes in Surgery
This study aims to discover if a blood test called NT-proBNP, along with other heart markers, can help predict how well patients will do after surgery on their blood vessels. Currently, around 1 in 5 patients having these operations can experience serious issues like a heart attack or even death within 18 months. Researchers believe that by measuring NT-proBNP levels before and after surgery, they might be able to spot patients who are at a higher risk of these complications. This could allow doctors to take extra steps to protect these patients, potentially leading to better outcomes. The study wants to see if this simple blood test can provide valuable early warnings, helping to reduce serious problems and improve recovery for many people.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is investigating a new way to help keep patients safe during and after certain types of surgery on their blood vessels. These are often important operations, but sometimes patients can have serious problems afterwards, like a heart attack or other heart-related issues. The study is looking at a specific blood test called NT-proBNP, which measures a protein related to heart health.
The idea is to take this blood test before and after surgery. If the levels of this protein are high, it might suggest that a patient is more likely to experience problems. If doctors can identify these higher-risk patients early on, they might be able to give them extra treatments or closer monitoring to help prevent serious complications, leading to a smoother recovery and better overall health.
The research also considers other heart-related markers that could provide even more information. Ultimately, the goal is to improve safety and outcomes for patients undergoing these important surgeries, helping them to stay healthier and maintain their independence for longer.
Key takeaways
- This study uses a blood test to predict surgical risks.
- It focuses on patients having specific blood vessel operations.
- The goal is to identify patients at higher risk of heart problems after surgery.
- Early identification could lead to better patient protection.
- The findings could improve safety and outcomes for future patients.
- Participation involves extra blood tests and follow-up.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you need to be an adult aged 18 years or older. You also need to be scheduled for certain types of planned (non-emergency) surgery on your blood vessels. These include operations like repairs to blood vessels in your legs, tummy (for something called an aortic aneurysm), or neck (carotid surgery).
There are also some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if your surgery is an emergency, you've recently had a heart attack, have unstable chest pain, or serious heart failure. Also, if you have a condition called chronic atrial fibrillation or are unable to understand and agree to take part, this study wouldn't be right for you.
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.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Is your blood vessel surgery planned, not an emergency?
- Are you having surgery on blood vessels in your legs, tummy, or neck?
- Do you feel well enough to understand and agree to take part?
- Have you not recently had a heart attack or have unstable chest pain?
- Do you not have severe heart failure or chronic atrial fibrillation?
What does participation involve?
The specific details of participation, such as the exact number of visits, assessments, or procedures, are not fully described in this summary. However, it's expected that if you take part, you would have blood samples taken before and after your surgery to measure specific heart markers like NT-proBNP. The study would likely follow your health outcomes after your surgery to see if these blood test results accurately predict how you recover. The total duration of your participation would depend on how long your health is monitored after surgery, which could be up to 18 months to track any longer-term issues.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Norfolk & Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeNorwich, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is NT-proBNP?
NT-proBNP is a substance in your blood that tells doctors about how your heart is working. Higher levels can sometimes mean your heart is under stress.
What kind of surgery is this study for?
This study is for people having specific types of planned (not emergency) operations on their blood vessels, such as in the legs, tummy, or neck.
Will I get extra medicine if I'm in the study?
The study itself doesn't involve giving new medicines. It's about seeing if a blood test can help doctors decide if you might need extra care or treatment, based on your risk.
Is this a new type of treatment?
No, this is a study to see if a particular blood test can help predict problems. It's not testing a new surgery or new medicine directly.
What does 'adverse outcome' mean?
In this study, an 'adverse outcome' means something serious happening after surgery, like a heart attack or, in very rare cases, death.
How to find out more
Emma Miler, MSc BSc Hons
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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