Using electrical cardioversion to improve heart rhythm after surgery

Electrical Cardioversion As a Predictor in Postoperative Preservation of Sinus Rhythm in Patients with Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Before Radio Frequency Pulmonary Vein Isolation

Not applicable Interventional Saint Petersburg State University, Russia · NCT06654401

This study tests if using electrical shocks to reset the heart rhythm can help patients with persistent atrial fibrillation feel better after heart surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment125 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorSaint Petersburg State University, Russia Academic / other
Locations1 site (Saint Petersburg, Sankt-Peterburg)
Trial IDNCT06654401 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the benefits of electrical cardioversion in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation who have undergone radiofrequency catheter isolation of pulmonary veins. It aims to determine if electrical cardioversion can lead to reverse remodeling of the left atrium and reduce fibrosis, potentially predicting freedom from atrial fibrillation after catheter ablation. Participants will be monitored through echocardiography and 24-hour ECG assessments at multiple follow-up points post-surgery. The study focuses on understanding the long-term effects of this intervention on heart rhythm preservation.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with persistent atrial fibrillation resistant to antiarrhythmic drugs for at least six months and specific left atrial size criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with reversible causes of atrial fibrillation or those requiring other cardiac interventions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance the management of atrial fibrillation and improve patient outcomes after heart surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using electrical cardioversion in this context is being explored, similar studies have shown promise in improving outcomes for atrial fibrillation patients.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Informed consent signed by the patient to participate in the study.
* Persistent atrial fibrillation resistant to antiarrhythmic drugs for 6 months or more
* The size of the left atrium is less than 55 mm, volume is less than 130 ml, volume index (LP) is less than 55 ml/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

* Reversible causes of atrial fibrillation (hyperthyroidism, pericarditis, myocarditis).
* Patients in need of myocardial revascularization and/or heart valvular disease correction.
* Any previous intervention (including MAZE surgery, thoracoscopic ablation; implanted occluder of the auricle of the left atrium.).
* Patients with severe concomitant pathology requiring correction.
* Contraindications for administration of anticoagulant therapy.
* Documented presence of a blood clot in the cavity of the left atrium or other reasons preventing the insertion of catheters into the left atrium.
* BMI of 40 or more

Where this trial is running

Saint Petersburg, Sankt-Peterburg

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 Fibrillation, PersistentCardioversionCatheter ablationLate recurrenceLeft atrial voltageLeft atrial volume
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.