Comparing two electrode positions for heart rhythm restoration in atrial fibrillation

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Anterior-posterior Versus Anterior-lateral Shock Vectors for Electrical Cardioversion of Atrial Fibrillation

Not applicable Interventional McMaster University · NCT05511389

This study is testing whether using two different electrode positions during heart rhythm restoration can help people with atrial fibrillation feel better and have more successful treatments.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment1500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMcMaster University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Hamilton, Ontario and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05511389 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of two different electrode positions, anteroposterior and anterolateral, during electrical cardioversion for patients with atrial fibrillation or flutter. By optimizing electrode placement, the study aims to enhance the success rate of restoring normal heart rhythm, potentially leading to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. The trial will involve consenting adult patients who are scheduled for non-emergent cardioversion, while excluding those with contraindications or insufficient anticoagulation. The goal is to determine which electrode position yields superior results in terms of restoring sinus rhythm.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are consenting adult patients scheduled for non-emergent electrical cardioversion of atrial fibrillation or flutter.

Not a fit: Patients who are not adequately anticoagulated or have anatomical contraindications for electrode placement may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved heart rhythm restoration and better overall health outcomes for patients with atrial fibrillation.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research in optimizing electrical cardioversion techniques, this specific comparison of electrode positions is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Consenting adult patients scheduled for non-emergent electrical cardioversion of Atrial Fibrillation or Flutter

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Insufficiently anticoagulation for cardioversion as per Canadian Cardiovascular Society guidelines or have not undergone trans-esophageal echocardiography to rule out left atrial thrombus
2. Anatomic contraindication to anterolateral or anteroposterior placement (e.g. skin conditions or wounds)

Where this trial is running

Hamilton, Ontario and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Atrial FibrillationAtrial Flutter
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.