'Understanding the Electrophysiological Substrate Underlying Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Study II (USURP AF- Study II)'

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER · Jul 29, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The 'Understanding the Electrophysiological Substrate Underlying Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Study II' (USURP AF- Study II) is a clinical trial aimed at better understanding the causes of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder that lasts longer than seven days. The study is exploring specific areas in the heart that may contribute to this condition, with the hope that targeting these areas can improve treatment outcomes. Current treatments for persistent AF, which may include medications or procedures like catheter ablation, often do not work as well as desired, and this study seeks to find more effective ways to help patients.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be at least 18 years old, able to understand and communicate in English, and have persistent AF that is ongoing at the start of the procedure. Participants should ideally be undergoing their first ablation for AF, though repeat procedures may be allowed. Throughout the study, participants can expect to undergo specialized heart mapping and potential catheter ablation based on the findings. It's important to note that individuals with certain heart conditions or devices may not be eligible. This study offers a chance to contribute to important research that could lead to better treatments for those living with persistent AF.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Must be aged 18 years or over
• • Must be able to communicate in written and spoken English
• • Must be able to give signed informed consent.
• • All patients must be defined as having persistent atrial fibrillation (AF \> 7 days) and must be in AF at the start of the procedure.
• • The patient preferably should be undergoing AF ablation for the first time, however repeat ablations can be permitted.
• • The patient must be listed for persistent AF ablation as part of standard clinical care.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Symptoms secondary to ischaemic or valvular heart disease
• • Congenital heart disease
• • Previous history of a cardiac arrhythmia (other than AF, atrial tachycardia, atrial flutter).
• • Previous cardiothoracic surgery
• • Underlying severe respiratory disease (i.e. patient on long term oxygen therapy)
• • Medical conditions which will affect cardiac rhythm, even if treated (e.g. thyroxine, etc.)
• • Presence of chest deformity.
• • Left atrial dilatation (L or R atrial end-diastolic dimension \> 4.5cm in any conventional plane of measurement on 2D transthoracic echocardiography).
• • Presence of implantable cardiac defibrillator or pacemaker (including cardiac resynchronisation devices).