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The CARE-HF study (CArdiac REsynchronisation in Heart Failure study): rationale, design and end-points
J G Cleland1, J C Daubert, E Erdmann
1Department of Cardiology, Castle Hill Hospital, Castle Road, Cottingham, University of Hull, Kingston upon Hull, HU16 5JQ, UK. j.g.cleland@hull.ac.uk
European Journal of Heart Failure
|August 21, 2001
Summary
Cardiac resynchronisation therapy significantly reduces mortality and hospitalisation in heart failure patients. This intervention improves outcomes for those with left ventricular systolic dysfunction on optimal medical therapy.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Heart failure management is evolving with new interventions.
- Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) shows promise for specific patient groups.
- Patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and dyssynchrony are candidates for CRT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term effects of cardiac (atrio-bi-ventricular) resynchronisation.
- To assess the impact of CRT on mortality and morbidity in heart failure patients.
- To determine the efficacy of CRT in patients already on optimal medical therapy.
Main Methods:
- The CARE-HF trial is a pragmatic study design.
- Approximately 800 patients were randomized to device therapy or control.
- Patients were followed for a minimum of 18 months with blinded adjudication of endpoints.
Main Results:
- The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality or unplanned cardiovascular hospitalisation.
- The study compared CRT strategies against optimal medical therapy.
- Recruitment was completed in 2002, with results reported in 2004.
Conclusions:
- Cardiac resynchronisation therapy is a key strategy in managing heart failure.
- CRT offers significant benefits in reducing mortality and hospitalisation.
- The study highlights the importance of CRT for patients with specific cardiac conditions.