Spatial resynchronization for atrial fibrillation
Spatial Resynchronization Therapy for AFib
This approach uses precisely timed, ultra-low energy pulses inside the heart to restore normal rhythm for adults with atrial fibrillation while reducing pain from high-voltage shocks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Maxwell Biomedical INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11141831 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This treatment maps the timing of electrical activity in the atria to find the small "excitable gap" where a low-energy pulse can interrupt atrial fibrillation and resynchronize the heart. Instead of painful high-voltage external shocks, the device delivers targeted, ultra-low energy stimulation aimed at converting the rhythm with less discomfort and fewer side effects. The developer has performed preclinical work and plans device testing that could include human procedures to demonstrate safety and effectiveness. If successful, the procedure would likely be delivered by cardiac electrophysiology teams in hospitals or specialized centers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) with symptomatic atrial fibrillation who are candidates for cardioversion or who have limited success with current ablation or drug options.
Not a fit: People without atrial fibrillation, those under 21, or patients who are not eligible for internal cardiac procedures or have incompatible implanted devices are unlikely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: It could restore normal heart rhythm with much less pain and fewer complications than high-voltage external cardioversion.
How similar studies have performed: Prior internal cardioversion approaches have been limited by invasiveness and pain, so this low-energy, gap-targeting approach is novel and relatively untested in large human trials.
Where this research is happening
San Diego, United States
- Maxwell Biomedical INC — San Diego, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Werneth, Randy — Maxwell Biomedical INC
- Study coordinator: Werneth, Randy
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.