Have You Received Multiple Shocks from Your ICD for Treatment of a Fast Heart Rhythm?
Study Summary
The University of Chicago and Dr. Beshai are conducting a study that uses the NaviStar ThermoCool catheter for radiofrequency ablation to eliminate ventricular tachycardia (VT). VT is an abnormal, fast heart rhythm that originates in the bottom chamber of the heart (ventricle). Radiofrequency catheter ablation is a procedure that delivers electrical energy through a catheter (a thin sterile tube) to the heart muscle in order to stop the VT from recurring. The successful termination of your VT would reduce the likelihood that you would receive additional shocks from your device to treat your VT.
The purpose of this research study is to collect additional information about the NaviStar ThermoCool catheter for the treatment of ventricular tachycardia (VT). If you choose to participate in this study, you will have the in-patient ablation procedure performed, you will have a follow up visit for the study six months after the procedure, and you will receive one follow-up phone call every year for the following three years.
The expected benefit of this study is that your VT will be terminated. The use of the ThermoCool study catheter will create larger, more effective burns of the heart muscle, and thereby may increase the likelihood for successful termination of your VT. In addition, the use of this catheter may reduce the length of the ablation procedure. If you have an ICD, you may benefit from not continuing to receive shocks to treat your VT.
Participation Details
Initial selection criteria include:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must not be pregnant
- Must be available for clinic visits for the duration of the study
- Must have documentation of multiple episodes of ventricular tachycardia (VT)--If you have an ICD, these episodes are captured by the nurse at your device check visits.
- Must meet all study medical criteria as evaluated by Dr. Beshai
Study Director: Dr. John F. Beshai
Department: Cardiology
For more information contact:
Melody Altman
(773) 834-7157
IRB: #15628B
