Breathing-Maneuver-Induced Myocardial Oxygenation Reserve Validated by FFR (B-MORE)
This study, called B-MORE, is investigating a new way to check if your heart muscle is getting enough oxygen, especially in people who might have narrowed arteries. Researchers are using a special type of MRI scan, along with breathing exercises, to see if it can accurately find areas of the heart that are struggling. We're comparing this new, non-invasive method with existing standard tests that are more involved. The aim is to find a simpler way to detect these heart issues without needing medication during the scan or more invasive procedures. This research could lead to easier and safer ways to diagnose heart conditions in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine your heart needing a good supply of oxygen to work properly. Sometimes, the arteries that feed your heart muscle can get narrowed, meaning less oxygen gets through. This study, called B-MORE, is looking for a new and simpler way to detect if parts of your heart aren't getting enough oxygen when these arteries are narrowed.
Currently, there are established tests to check for this, but they can sometimes involve medicines or more invasive procedures. The B-MORE study is trying out a special kind of MRI scan (similar to a regular MRI but designed to look at oxygen levels) combined with simple breathing exercises. The idea is that these breathing exercises might help highlight areas of the heart that are short on oxygen.
We want to see if this new MRI scan, used with specific breathing patterns and without any special medicines, can accurately identify heart problems. If it does, it could mean easier and safer ways to diagnose heart conditions in the future, helping doctors understand how well your heart muscle is working.
Key takeaways
- New MRI method being tested for heart issues.
- Uses breathing exercises, no extra medication.
- Aims for a simpler, non-invasive diagnosis.
- Compares results to current standard tests.
- Could help diagnose narrowed heart arteries.
- No direct personal benefit guaranteed, but may help future patients.
Who may be eligible?
There are two main groups of people we are looking for in this study: healthy volunteers and people who have known or suspected problems with their heart arteries.
If you are a healthy volunteer, you need to be over 40 years old and shouldn't have any major heart or breathing problems. You also can't have certain medical devices like pacemakers, or be pregnant. We'd also ask you to avoid caffeine and nicotine before the scan.
If you have a heart condition, you need to be over 18. You would have already had symptoms suggesting heart artery problems, or a previous test that showed a potential issue leading to an angiogram. Similar to healthy volunteers, you can't have certain medical devices, be pregnant, or have consumed caffeine or nicotine beforehand. Additionally, if you have a heart condition, you'll need to avoid certain heart medications (like nitrates) for 12 hours before the scan, and we can't include you if you have certain severe heart or lung conditions, or if you've had a heart attack very recently.
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 am over 18 years old (if I have a heart condition) or over 40 (if I am healthy).
- I do not have a pacemaker or other metallic implants that would prevent an MRI.
- I am not pregnant or suspect I might be.
- I have not had caffeine or nicotine in the last 12 hours.
- I have not had a heart attack in the last month (if I have a heart condition).
- I do not have severe lung problems like asthma (if I have a heart condition).
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you will have a specific type of MRI scan of your heart. During the scan, you'll be asked to perform some breathing exercises. This may involve holding your breath for short periods or breathing in a particular way. You won't be given any new medications relating to the study; the scan will be done using your own breathing. The overall duration of your participation in the study, including the scan and any necessary preparation, will be explained fully by the study team. They will ensure you understand what is involved step by step.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- McGill University Health CenterVerified postcodeMontreal, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is an MRI scan?
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a type of scan that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body, including your heart.
Will I have to take any new medicines for this study?
No, you won't be given any new medicines as part of this study. The test relies on your own breathing and the MRI scan.
What are 'breathing maneuvers'?
These are simply special ways of breathing, like holding your breath for a short time, that you'll be asked to do during the MRI scan.
Is this test painful?
The MRI scan itself is usually not painful, but it can be noisy, and you will need to lie still for a period. The breathing exercises are not painful.
How long will my visit take?
The study team will tell you the exact length of your visit, including preparation and the scan itself, before you agree to take part.
How to find out more
Elizabeth Konidis
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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