Barts recruits patients for major heart valve treatment study

Barts Health has joined a national clinical trial examining which blood-thinning treatment provides the safest and most effective care following mitral valve repair surgery.

The AFFECT trial will involve 1,282 adults receiving surgery for mitral regurgitation who also have a heart rhythm condition. These patients commonly require anticoagulant medication to reduce their risk of stroke and other complications after surgery.

Participants will be randomly allocated either a direct oral anticoagulant or the currently recommended treatment, known as a vitamin K antagonist. Medication will begin before patients leave hospital, with their health monitored for at least 12 months and annual follow-up appointments continuing for up to four years.

Barts Health is one of 30 centres taking part nationally. Its contribution is being led by Dincer Aktuerk, consultant cardiothoracic surgeon and clinical lead for robotic and minimally invasive cardiac surgery at Barts Heart Centre.

Mr Aktuerk said the findings could establish clearer, evidence-based guidance for anticoagulation following mitral valve repair and help ensure patients receive the most appropriate treatment.

The trial is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research and led by the Academic Cardiovascular Unit at James Cook University Hospital, part of University Hospitals Tees. Eligible patients at Barts Health will be approached by the NHS teams responsible for their care.

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