Handgrip Test for Heart Function Assessment in Adults
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Background There are significant limitations in the current approaches to assessing 2 important areas of cardiovascular physiology - the systemic circulation and left ventricular (LV) performance. The investigators' have repurposed the concepts of "systemic vascular conductance" to assess systemic circulation, and the "head capacity principle" to assess LV performance. The investigators' now seek to test these concepts in human adults, with heart failure and without heart failure, using non-invasive methods. Hypothesis There will be a depressed head-capacity curve and reduced power among patients with heart failure which will indicate compromised left ventricular pump function. Methods The research study will involve a single outpatient visit per subject. The study will take place with the subject supine on a bed/table. The subjects will be instrumented with EKG electrodes and finger blood pressure cuffs. The continuous finger BP device performs a waveform analysis in real-time to determine the non-invasive stroke volume, cardiac output, and blood pressure. The patient will be supine for at least 5 minutes to collect baseline data before being handed a dynamometer device. The subject will then be asked to squeeze the dynamometer with maximum force for a minimum of 2 minutes while only engaging their forearm and remaining relaxed in the rest of their body. The subject will then release the dynamometer and remain supine, in recovery, for a minimum of 5 minutes. Following the handgrip test, the instrumentation will be removed and the patient's participation in the study will be complete. The study duration should be about 20 min.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on intravenous medications to support your heart function, you cannot participate in the trial.
What data supports the effectiveness of the handgrip test treatment for heart function assessment in adults?
Is the handgrip test safe for assessing heart function in adults?
The handgrip test is generally considered safe for assessing heart function in adults, as it is a simple and low-cost method that can be used across a wide range of ages. However, in patients with severe heart conditions, the test may cause increased heart stress, so it should be used with caution in these cases.34567
How does the handgrip test differ from other treatments for heart function assessment?
The handgrip test is unique because it is a simple, non-invasive stress test that can be used to assess heart function by measuring changes in blood pressure and heart rate during isometric exercise (muscle contraction without movement). Unlike other treatments, it does not involve medication or complex procedures, making it accessible and safe for a wide range of patients.23456
Research Team
Satish R Raj, MD MSCI
Principal Investigator
University of Calgary
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults over 18 with heart failure, as well as those without it. Participants must be able to give informed consent and not be on IV medications like inotropes or pressors that help maintain heart function.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Trial Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Single Outpatient Visit
Participants undergo non-invasive cardiovascular assessments including EKG and blood pressure monitoring, followed by a handgrip test
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the single visit
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Handgrip Test (Behavioural Intervention)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Calgary
Lead Sponsor