Correlation of the Arrhythmia Mechanism and Substrate to Ablate Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Study
This study is exploring a new approach for people with persistent atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm problem. Researchers are using advanced imaging, like special MRI and PET scans, along with heart mapping technology. These tools help them to pinpoint specific areas in the heart that cause the irregular rhythm. The information gathered from these scans will then guide a treatment called catheter ablation, which gently targets and corrects these problematic areas. The goal is to see if this more personalised approach can lead to better success rates compared to current treatments for this type of atrial fibrillation. It's a pilot study, meaning it's a first step to understand if this new method is effective.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study aims to find better ways to treat a specific type of irregular heartbeat called persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). Normally, your heart beats in a regular rhythm, but with AF, the upper chambers of your heart (atria) quiver instead of beating effectively. This can make you feel tired, dizzy, or breathless.
Current treatments for persistent AF, especially a procedure called catheter ablation, don't always work as well as doctors would like, with success rates often around 40-50% after a year. This might be because we don't fully understand all the reasons why AF continues in some people. One idea is that AF can cause changes in the heart tissue, leading to a kind of 'scarring' called fibrosis, and also create specific electrical pathways that keep the irregular rhythm going.
That's where this study comes in. Researchers are using advanced imaging techniques to get a much clearer picture of what's happening inside the heart. This includes special ECG tests that map the electrical activity, enhanced MRI scans to look for heart tissue changes (fibrosis), and PET scans to check nerve activity in the heart. The plan is to use all this detailed information to guide a catheter ablation procedure, making it much more targeted and personal to each patient. The hope is that by precisely identifying and treating the problem areas, patients will have a much better chance of their heart rhythm returning to normal.
Key takeaways
- This study explores a new, personalised way to treat persistent atrial fibrillation.
- It uses advanced scans to map problem areas in your heart.
- The goal is to make catheter ablation more effective.
- Participants will have detailed heart tests before their procedure.
- Follow-up appointments include heart monitoring for 6 months after treatment.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you generally need to be between 18 and 80 years old and have been diagnosed with persistent atrial fibrillation. This means you've had at least one episode of an irregular heartbeat lasting more than seven days. Importantly, your doctor should already be considering catheter ablation as a treatment option for you. You also need to be able to understand and agree to take part in the study.
There are several reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you've already had a catheter ablation or heart surgery for AF, or if there's a clot inside your heart. You also can't take part if you have certain existing health conditions, like severe heart valve problems, very poor kidney function, or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. People who can't have an MRI scan (for example, due to a pacemaker or certain metal implants) also wouldn't be able to join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 80 years old?
- Have you been diagnosed with persistent atrial fibrillation?
- Has your doctor suggested catheter ablation as a treatment for you?
- Have you had an irregular heartbeat lasting more than 7 days in the last year?
- Are you able to have an MRI scan?
- Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you'll undergo several special tests before your catheter ablation procedure. These include detailed heart scans like an enhanced MRI, a PET scan, and an ECG body mapping test to create a detailed picture of your heart's electrical activity. These tests are designed to help the doctors plan a more effective ablation.
After your ablation, you'll have follow-up visits after 3 months and again after 6 months. At each of these visits, you'll have a standard heart tracing (ECG) and will wear a small heart monitor for two weeks to check your heart rhythm. The overall duration of your participation in the study will be at least 6 months after your ablation procedure.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of Ottawa Heart InstituteVerified postcodeOttawa, Canada
Common questions
What is persistent atrial fibrillation?
It's a type of irregular heartbeat where the upper sections of your heart quiver for more than seven days, causing symptoms like tiredness or breathlessness.
What is catheter ablation?
It's a procedure where doctors use thin tubes (catheters) to create small scars in the heart, blocking faulty electrical signals that cause the irregular heartbeat.
Why are special scans used in this study?
The scans (MRI, PET, ECG mapping) help doctors get a very detailed picture of your heart, finding specific problem areas to guide a more precise ablation treatment.
Will my treatment be different if I join?
Yes, your catheter ablation will be specifically planned using information from the advanced scans, aiming for a more personalised approach than standard procedures.
How long will I be involved in the study?
After your ablation, you'll have follow-up checks at 3 and 6 months, making your total involvement at least 6 months post-procedure.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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