NCT03868150 · Stanford University
Prevention of Postop Atrial Fibrillation Through Intraoperative Inducibility of Atrial Fibrillation and Amiodarone Treatment
What this study is about
Patients undergoing first time cardiac surgery will undergo rapid atrial pacing prior to initiation of cardiopulmonary bypass to screen for AF inducibility. Patients with inducible AF will be randomly assigned to prophylactic amiodarone treatment versus no treatment. Patients who are not inducible to AF will be treated with standard post-operative care.
View original scientific description
Patients undergoing first time cardiac surgery will undergo rapid atrial pacing prior to initiation of cardiopulmonary bypass to screen for AF inducibility. Patients with inducible AF will be randomized to prophylactic amiodarone treatment versus no treatment. Patients who are not inducible to AF will be treated with standard post-operative care.
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
- Patients scheduled for first-time non-emergent open-heart surgery for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) revascularization, valvular repair or replacement, combined CABG with valve repair or replacement, or valve sparing aortic root repair
- Normal sinus rhythm
- No documented history of atrial fibrillation
Exclusion criteria
- Prior surgical procedures involving heart surgery and cardiopulmonary bypass
- Any prior documented history of atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter or atrial tachycardia lasting longer than 30 seconds
- Prior history of Amiodarone treatment for the management of supraventricular tachy-arrhythmias
- Patients requiring surgical treatment of atrial arrhythmias such as pulmonary vein isolation or Maze procedure.
Where
- Stanford, California
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