Heart pump combo tested for shock recovery – trial cut short

NCT ID NCT03431467

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether adding an Impella CP heart pump early to standard VA-ECMO support helps people recover from cardiogenic shock, a life-threatening condition where the heart can't pump enough blood. The trial planned to enroll adults with severe heart failure but was terminated early after only 17 participants. Researchers measured survival without needing long-term heart support, transplant, or IV medications at 30 days.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Impella CP (a heart pump device)

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could improve heart recovery and reduce the need for long-term heart support or transplant in people with severe heart failure.

What could go wrong

The trial was terminated early with only 17 participants, so results are very limited. Adding a second device also increases risks like bleeding or infection.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cardiogenic shock heart failure Shock, Cardiogenic

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Hospital of The University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States