NCT06212791 · Virginia Commonwealth University
EXercise Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Assessment of Left Atrial Mechanics Following Ablation
(EXCLAMATORY)
What this study is about
Longitudinal, observational group of participants study to evaluate changes in left atrial (LA) reservoir function during exercise and overall exertional capacity in patients following catheter ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF).
View original scientific description
Longitudinal, observational cohort study to evaluate changes in left atrial (LA) reservoir function during exercise and overall exertional capacity in patients following catheter ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF).
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Self- Report Evaluation-Duke Activity Status Index
Complete the Self- Report Evaluation-Duke Activity Status Index
BEHAVIORAL
Self- Report Evaluation Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality of Life Questionnaire
Complete the Self- Report Evaluation, Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality of Life Questionnaire
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET)
Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET)
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Transthoracic echocardiogram
Transthoracic echocardiogram at rest and immediately following peak exercise during CPET
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Ambulatory cardiac rhythm assessment
Ambulatory cardiac rhythm assessment
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR)
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) study at rest and during two stages of submaximal exercise (ExeCMR)
Primary outcome measures
Change in LA reservoir function reserve at submaximal exercise after catheter ablation in patients with paroxysmal AF.
Time frame: Baseline and the follow up testing will be performed 5-6 months (to be more specific: 150-180 days) after catheter ablation.
Change in LA reservoir volume reserve from baseline to follow up, change in left ventricular (LV) stroke volume reserve from baseline to follow up, correlation between changes in LA reservoir volume reserve and changes in LV stroke volume reserve. Therefore the follow up testing will be performed 5-6 months (to be more specific: 150-180 days) after catheter ablation.
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
- Age ≥18 years
- Diagnosis of paroxysmal AF
- Left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50%
- Scheduled for catheter ablation
- Able to speak, hear, and read English
- Willing and able to provide informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Persistent or permanent AF
- Prior ablation (catheter based or surgical) for AF
- Significant sinus node dysfunction
- Implanted pacemaker or defibrillator
- Contraindication to or inability to complete cardiovascular magnetic resonance study
- Contraindication to or inability to complete exercise testing
- Chronic kidney disease with estimated glomerular filtration rate \<30 mL/min/1.73m2
- Severe left ventricular hypertrophy
- Unrelated cardiomyopathy that is expected to limit exercise capacity, including but not limited to:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Cardiac amyloidosis
- Constrictive pericarditis
- Pulmonary arterial hypertension
- Prior cardiac surgery
- Active pregnancy
Where
- Richmond, Virginia
Collaborators
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
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 Mar 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations