Effect of repeated intracoronary injection of bone marrow cells in patients with ischaemic heart failure the Danish stem cell study--congestive heart failure trial (DanCell-CHF)

BACKGROUND: It has been suggested that myocardial regeneration may be achieved by a single intracoronary bone marrow derived stem cell infusion in selected patients with ischaemic heart disease. The effect is uncertain in patients with chronic ischaemic heart failure and it is not known whether repeated infusions would have additional positive effects.

AIMS: To assess whether two treatments of intracoronary infusion of bone marrow stem cells, administered 4 months apart, could improve left ventricular (LV) systolic function in patients with chronic ischaemic heart failure.

METHODS: The study was prospective and non-randomised, comprising an observational baseline period of 4 months followed by an interventional period of 12 months. Intracoronary bone marrow cell infusion was performed at the end of the baseline period and repeated 4 months later.

RESULTS: 32 patients were included. LV ejection fraction remained unchanged (33+/-9% vs. 34+/-10% after 8 months, p=0.30). Likewise, there was no significant change in LV end-systolic volume, wall motion score index (WMSI) or contractile reserve. At 12 months, a decrease in target vessel WMSI was seen (2.17+/-0.34 vs. 2.06+/-0.46, p=0.02). Furthermore, NYHA class improved (p<0.0001). No deaths were observed.

CONCLUSION: In this non-randomised study, no change in LV ejection fraction could be demonstrated after repeated intracoronary bone marrow stem cell treatment in patients with chronic ischaemic heart failure.