Can a simple body scan predict heart transplant success?
NCT ID NCT03373279
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether a device that measures body composition (bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy) can help predict complications after a heart transplant. Researchers followed 69 adult heart transplant patients for one year, tracking changes in muscle and fat. The goal was to see if these measurements could identify patients at higher risk for problems like rejection, kidney injury, or longer hospital stays.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could lead to a simple, non-invasive way to assess malnutrition and frailty in heart transplant patients, helping doctors identify those at higher risk for complications.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, observational study that only looks for associations, not a treatment trial. The findings may not apply to all heart transplant patients or lead to changes in care.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Participants
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69 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Feb 2017
- Finished
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Dec 2023
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
Who is studied
Patients receiving a heart transplant
- Ages
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18 to 80 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Listed for a native heart transplant at BUMC * At least 18 years of age Exclusion Criteria: * Women during pregnancy * Patient currently has a ventricular assist device
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Baylor University Medical Center
Dallas, Texas, 75246, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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- Can a new drug combo shield young hearts from transplant complications?
- New study aims to unlock secrets of heart transplant failure
- New blood test could replace painful heart biopsies for transplant patients
- Blood test could replace painful heart biopsies for transplant patients
- Heart transplant patients may get safer virus protection