NCT06067438 · OHSU Knight Cancer Institute
Amiodarone for the Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation After Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy in Patients With Esophageal Cancer
What this study is about
This phase II trial studies how well amiodarone works in the prevention of atrial fibrillation (AF) after a minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) in patients with esophageal cancer. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an irregular heart rhythm, usually associated with a rapid rate, that is caused by abnormal electrical activity within the atria.
View original scientific description
This phase II trial studies how well amiodarone works in the prevention of atrial fibrillation (AF) after a minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) in patients with esophageal cancer. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an irregular heart rhythm, usually associated with a rapid rate, that is caused by abnormal electrical activity within the atria. AF is the most common complication after MIE for esophageal cancer. There has never been a study of AF after MIE that has used unbiased assignment of patients to receive preventative amiodarone or not. Further, there is no standard recommendation or guideline for preventative medications, such as amiodarone, to decrease the risk of AF in patients having MIE performed for cancer. In fact, most medical centers in the United States and around the world do not give preventative amiodarone after esophagectomy. Giving amiodarone after MIE surgery may be able to reduce the risk of AF for patients with esophageal cancer.
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
- All patients undergoing MIE will be evaluated for potential enrollment
- Indication of cancer, esophageal dysplasia or esophageal dysmotilities
- Age \> 18 years
- Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document
Exclusion criteria
- History of chronic or paroxysmal AF, or atrial flutter
- Previous severe adverse reaction or contraindication to amiodarone (e.g., pulmonary toxicity/fibrosis, hepatotoxicity, thyroid dysfunction)
- Current preoperative use of amiodarone, as baseline home medication
- Development of AF intraoperatively
- Negative pregnancy tests are required for participants of childbearing potential (PCBP) on Day of Surgery (DOS)
- Breastfeeding/chest feeding
- Aborted MIE operation
- QTcF (Fridericia formula) \> 500 for heart rate (HR) 60-100 within 30 days
- For patients with a heart rate (HR) of between 50-59 on their pre-operative screening electrocardiography (EKG), we will first review evidence of chronotropic cardiac response to exercise before inclusion in the study. If a patient's HR increases to ≥ 100 with exercise, the patient is eligible for inclusion of study. Exercise testing options may include a stair climb, a brisk walk, or supine leg-lifts prior to surgery. If exercise is not an option, we can review results of formal stress testing chronotropic response (ie. HR ≥ 100). HR monitoring can be collected by either pulse oximeter or EKG
Where
- Portland, Oregon
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 May 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations