Using MRI to guide and confirm ablation for atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation ablation assessment and guidance using native-contrast T1 weighted MRI
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11127448
Using MRI scans to guide and confirm ablation treatment for people with atrial fibrillation.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11127448 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses a non-contrast T1-weighted MRI technique to try to show where ablation has created permanent scarring in the heart. The team will image tissue immediately after ablation and over time to tell permanent lesions from temporary injury and swelling. That imaging information would be used during procedures to guide any additional ablation and afterward to confirm that permanent treatment was achieved. The work builds on preclinical imaging and aims to apply the technique in clinical care at Johns Hopkins.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with atrial fibrillation who are scheduled for catheter ablation, especially those with persistent AF or at high risk of recurrence, would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People not undergoing catheter ablation or those who cannot have MRI (for example, due to incompatible implants or severe claustrophobia) would not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lower the chance of arrhythmia coming back and reduce the need for repeat ablation procedures by ensuring lesions are complete the first time.
How similar studies have performed: Contrast-enhanced MRI methods (late gadolinium enhancement) have shown promise for marking post-ablation scar, but native-contrast T1 approaches are newer and less tested in patients.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KOLANDAIVELU, ARAVINDAN — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KOLANDAIVELU, ARAVINDAN
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.