NCT06138873 · Rush University Medical Center
Ablation-Index Guided Scar-Mediated Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation in Patients With Ischemic Cardiomyopathy
(AIM-VT)
What this study is about
Over the last decade, radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) has become an established treatment for ventricular arrhythmias (VA). Due to the challenging nature of visualizing lesion formation in real time and ensuring an effective transmural lesion, different surrogate measures of lesion quality have been used.
View original scientific description
Over the last decade, radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) has become an established treatment for ventricular arrhythmias (VA). Due to the challenging nature of visualizing lesion formation in real time and ensuring an effective transmural lesion, different surrogate measures of lesion quality have been used. The Ablation Index (AI) is a variable incorporating power delivery in its formula and combining it with CF and time in a weighted equation which aims at allowing for a more precise estimation of lesion depth and quality when ablating VAs. AI guidance has previously been shown to improve outcomes in atrial and ventricular ablation in patients with premature ventricular complexes (PVC). However research on outcomes following AI-guidance for VT ablation specifically in patients with structural disease and prior myocardial infarction remains sparse. The investigators aim at conducting the first randomized controlled trial testing for the superiority of an AI-guided approach regarding procedural duration.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patient ≥ 18 y.o.
- Structural Heart Disease: Ischemic Cardiomyopathy
- Sustained Scar-related Monomorphic Ventricular Tachycardia documented by ECG or CIED interrogation
Exclusion criteria
- If clinical ventricular arrhythmia is predominantly PVCs, supraventricular tachycardia, or ventricular fibrillation
- Myocardial infarction or cardiac surgery within 6 months
- Severe mitral regurgitation
- Stroke or TIA within 6 months
- Prior VT substrate ablation in the previous 6 months
- NYHA functional class IV
- Non-ischemic VT substrate
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Rochester, Minnesota
- Charleston, South Carolina
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 22, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations