NCT05366361 · Stanford University
The Dynamics of Human Atrial Fibrillation
What this study is about
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an enormous public health problem in the United States, affecting 2-5 million Americans and causing rapid heart beats, stroke, heart failure or death. In this project, the applicant will develop a novel framework to better understand human AF that builds on agreement between several concepts for the disease.
View original scientific description
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an enormous public health problem in the United States, affecting 2-5 million Americans and causing rapid heart beats, stroke, heart failure or death. In this project, the applicant will develop a novel framework to better understand human AF that builds on agreement between several concepts for the disease. The applicant will develop strategies to identify AF patients who will best respond to each of several therapies, to guide personalized therapy.
Primary outcome measures
Does the Area of Organized Regions in AF predict success from Ablation?
Time frame: 1 year.
We will map areas of organized activity in all patients. We will compare if patients with success from ablation (absence of recurrent AF or atrial tachycardia on outpatient monitoring) have larger organized areas than those without success.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- referred for ablation or Maze surgery at Stanford Medicine for persistent AF (i.e. which requires cardioversion to terminate and/or lasts \>7 days)
- Per our clinical practice and guidelines (Calkins et al., Heart Rhythm 2018), patients will have failed or be intolerant of \>or= 1 anti-arrhythmic drug. Patients after Maze surgery typically have failed prior endocardial ablation.
Exclusion criteria
- active coronary ischemia or decompensated heart failure
- atrial or ventricular clot on trans-esophageal echocardiography
- pregnancy (to minimize fluoroscopic exposure)
- inability or unwillingness to provide informed consent
- rheumatic valve disease (results in a unique AF phenotype)
- thrombotic disease or venous filters
- prior chest surgery is a relative contraindication for Maze surgery
Where
- Stanford, California
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations