Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

The RIPPLE AT-PLUS Study

The RIPPLE AT-Plus study is looking into the best way to treat atrial tachycardia, a condition where your heart beats too fast. Doctors use a treatment called catheter ablation to fix this. In this study, we're comparing two different methods of doing this ablation: one uses a newer technique called 'Ripple Mapping' and the other uses the standard approach. Both methods aim to correct the irregular heart rhythm. We want to find out if the Ripple Mapping technique can lead to a more successful and lasting treatment, meaning fewer irregular heartbeats returning after a year. Participants in the study will be randomly assigned to receive one of these two approaches, and we'll carefully track their progress.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

201

Start

16 Aug 2022

Estimated completion

01 Apr 2026

Atrial Tachycardia

What is this study about?

Atrial tachycardia is a type of irregular heartbeat where the upper chambers of your heart beat too quickly. This can cause symptoms like palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath. A common and effective treatment for this is called 'catheter ablation'. During this procedure, doctors use thin, flexible wires (catheters) to find and gently heat small areas in your heart that are causing the irregular rhythm.

This study, called RIPPLE AT-Plus, aims to make this treatment even better. We're comparing two different ways doctors can guide these catheters to find the problem areas. One method is the standard approach that doctors currently use. The other is a newer technique called 'Ripple Mapping', which helps doctors get a clearer picture of where the irregular signals are coming from. Early findings suggest Ripple Mapping might help fix the irregular heartbeat more often during the actual procedure.

However, we don't yet know if these immediate improvements using Ripple Mapping lead to longer-term benefits for patients. That's why we're conducting this study: to see if the Ripple Mapping technique can reduce the chance of your atrial tachycardia coming back within a year after the ablation. By finding more precisely where the problem is, we hope doctors can perform a more targeted ablation, which could mean a better outcome for you in the long run.

Key takeaways

The study compares two ways of treating a fast heartbeat (atrial tachycardia).
It aims to see if a newer 'Ripple Mapping' technique leads to better long-term results.
Participation involves either the standard or Ripple Mapping guided ablation.
You'll be monitored for any return of your irregular heartbeat for up to one year.
This study could help improve treatment for atrial tachycardia in the future.

Who may be eligible?

You might be able to take part in this study if your doctor has recommended catheter ablation for your atrial tachycardia. You need to be 18 years old or older, and you must be able to understand and agree to participate in both the study and the ablation procedure itself.

However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if your doctor believes a catheter ablation isn't safe for you, or if your irregular heartbeat is a different type called typical atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation (AF), then this study might not be suitable. The study is open to both men and women between the ages of 18 and 80. Your doctor will carefully review all your health information to see if this study is right for you.

Quick self-check

Has my doctor recommended catheter ablation for my irregular heartbeat?
Am I aged 18 or older?
Do I understand what the study involves and agree to take part?
Is my irregular heartbeat specifically 'atrial tachycardia' (not atrial flutter or AF)?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will have their catheter ablation guided by the standard method, and the other will have it guided by the newer Ripple Mapping technique. The catheters used for the procedure will be very similar for both groups. After your procedure, we'll keep in touch with you. About a year later, you'll have a follow-up appointment which will include wearing a Holter monitor (a small, portable device that records your heart's electrical activity over a period) to check for any return of your irregular heartbeat. The total duration of your participation will be about one year.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in a study like this means you might be among the first to benefit from a newer technique that could potentially lead to a longer-lasting successful treatment for your irregular heartbeat. However, as with any medical procedure, there are always some risks associated with catheter ablation, which your doctor will explain in detail. You will also be monitored closely during and after the procedure. Remember, participation is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (3)

Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital
London, United Kingdom
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
London, United Kingdom
Freeman Hospital, The Newcastle Upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust
Newcastle, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is atrial tachycardia?

It's a type of irregular heartbeat where the upper chambers of your heart beat too fast.

What is a catheter ablation?

It's a procedure where doctors use thin wires to correct irregular heart rhythms by gently heating small areas in your heart.

What is Ripple Mapping?

It's a newer technique that helps doctors get a clearer, more accurate picture of where the irregular heart signals are coming from during an ablation.

Will I know which treatment I receive?

You will be randomly assigned to either the standard method or the Ripple Mapping guided method. The study team may be able to explain more about this if you participate.

How long will I be followed up?

After your procedure, you will have a follow-up appointment, including a heart monitor, about one year later.