Non-invasive diagnosis of coronary microvascular disease: pilot study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Non-invasive diagnosis of coronary microvascular disease using novel CMR and CT techniques: a pilot study
IRAS ID
303372
Contact name
Ranjit Arnold
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Leicester
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
40% of patients presenting with stable chest pain (angina) have no significant blockage of the main heart arteries. Identifying why these patients have symptoms will mean better treatment options can be developed. About 60% of these patients have evidence of coronary microvascular disease (CMD). In this condition there is a problem with the heart's microvessels (very small blood vessels that branch from the main heart arteries). Due to problems with these vessels there is a mismatch between the blood supply to the heart and its oxygen consumption, causing chest pain and this can also lead to major heart events. At present, to diagnose this condition, specialised techniques during an invasive test, called a coronary angiogram, are required. As this is an invasive test, it can be lead to complications and cause discomfort. Non-invasive ways of diagnosing CMD are required to improve the diagnosis and management of this condition.
This study aims to provide pilot data on whether novel imaging techniques using CT and MRI scans, which are much less invasive, could identify CMD. To do this, patients with suspected angina referred for angiography and who are already participants of the ‘CMR versus CT-FFR in CAD’ study will be recruited. These will be patients with suspected CMD and also those with blockage of the main heart arteries to compare against. Participants will have additional tests used to diagnose CMD during their invasive angiography procedure. Participants will then have an MRI scan involving novel techniques and exercise MRI, where individuals exercise use a cycle or stepping machine during the MRI scan. Further analysis will also be undertaken of CT images acquired as part of the ‘CMR versus CT-FFR in CAD’ study. These tests will be compared against invasive test results to see which show potential in being able to diagnose CMD.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Bradford Leeds Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/YH/0031
Date of REC Opinion
8 Mar 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion