The TRAndolapril Cardiac Evaluation (TRACE) study: rationale, design, and baseline characteristics of the screened population. The Trace Study Group.

The TRAndolapril Cardiac Evaluation (TRACE) study is evaluating the effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition with trandolapril on mortality (overall and cardiovascular) and cardiovascular morbidity in patients surviving myocardial infarction (MI) with reduced left ventricular (LV) function. TRACE is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in 27 centers in Denmark. Eligible patients had a MI verified by elevated cardiac enzymes, electrocardiographic changes, and/or chest pain as well as reduced LV function, as shown by echocardiographic evaluation of wall motion index < or = 1.2. (A wall motion index < or = 1.2 approximates to a left ventricular ejection fraction < or = 35%). Patients with residual ischemia and/or heart failure were not excluded. Trandolapril or placebo was added to conventional therapy 3-7 days after MI. Between May 1990 and June 1992, 6,674 patients (7,010 infarctions) were screened. A total of 2,614 patients had a wall motion index < or = 1.2; of these, 1,749 were included. Overall 1-year mortality of the patients entered into the study was 24%. Treatment will be continued for 2-4 years (mean, 3 years), ending in mid 1994. The design and organization of the study, the outcome of screening, and demographic features of the screened population are described.

RCT Entities:   Population Interventions Outcomes