NCT07220525 · University of California, San Francisco
Disrupted Sleep and Concurrent Ectopy or Atrial Fibrillation
(DISCRETE AF)
What this study is about
Whereas the available evidence mostly supports chronic sleep disruption as a risk factor for incident AF, less is known about the near-term risk of a discrete atrial fibrillation (AF) episode following a night of disrupted or poor-quality sleep.
View original scientific description
Whereas the available evidence mostly supports chronic sleep disruption as a risk factor for incident AF, less is known about the near-term risk of a discrete atrial fibrillation (AF) episode following a night of disrupted or poor-quality sleep. This prospective, randomized, case-crossover study aims to examine the acute effects of sleep disruption on clinically relevant cardiac ectopy pertinent to AF.
Interventions
DEVICE
HGNS Use Randomized Instructions
In this intervention assignment, participants will be instructed to turn off/not use their HGNS device during that night of sleep. HGNS 'on': In this intervention assignment, participants will be instructed to turn on/use their HGNS device during that night of sleep.
Primary outcome measures
Ectopic beats
Time frame: 24-hour time period
Daily number of ectopic beats as recorded with the adhesive heart monitor
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
- Are age 21 years or older
- Have a HGNS device implanted for obstructive sleep apnea and followed up at UCSF Health
- Are willing to abstain from using the upper airway stimulation device for no more than two consecutive days as instructed over the 14-day trial period
- Able and willing to provide written informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Currently pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Are currently taking class 1 or 3 anti-arrhythmic medications
- Have a history of permanent AF or expected to have continuous AF throughout the study period
- Have congenital heart disease
- Ventricular pacing \>40%
- Are unable to read or sign to provide informed consent
Where
- San Francisco, 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 Jan 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations