Contribution of Computed Tomography and Cardiac-MRI in Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
This study is for people with a heart rhythm problem called atrial fibrillation (AF) who are considering a treatment called AF ablation. While ablation can help, it doesn't work for everyone. Doctors want to get better at predicting who will benefit most. This research uses special scans, a CT scan and an MRI scan of the heart, to look closely at the heart. Specifically, it will measure fat around the heart and how the heart's upper chambers (atria) move. The aim is to see if these measurements can help doctors predict the chances of the AF ablation procedure being successful in the long term, helping them choose the best treatment for each patient.
At a glance
What is this study about?
If you have a heart condition called atrial fibrillation (AF), you'll know it can cause your heart to beat irregularly or too fast. When medicines don't control AF well enough, doctors might suggest a procedure called AF ablation. This treatment aims to correct the heart's rhythm. While ablation can be very effective, it doesn't work for everyone, and doctors are always looking for ways to predict who will benefit most.
This is where this research study comes in. Doctors want to find better ways to understand why AF ablation works for some people and not for others. They're particularly interested in looking at the heart itself using advanced imaging. They'll be using two types of scans you might have heard of: a CT scan and an MRI scan. These scans will help them take very detailed pictures of your heart to look for specific things, like the amount of fat within the heart muscle and how the upper chambers of your heart (called the atria) move.
The main goal of this study is to see if measuring these things – the heart fat from a CT scan and the heart's movement from an MRI scan – can predict whether your AF ablation will keep your heart rhythm steady for at least a year after the procedure. If doctors can better understand these factors, it could help them choose the best treatment option for patients like you in the future.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to improve prediction of AF ablation success.
- It uses detailed CT and MRI heart scans, often part of standard care.
- Researchers will look at heart fat and how heart chambers move.
- You'd be followed for a year after your ablation.
- Participation might not offer direct personal health benefits.
- You can stop taking part at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who are scheduled to have a first-time AF ablation procedure for their atrial fibrillation within the next six months. You must be able to understand the study and provide your written permission to take part.
There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join the study. For example, if you've already had an AF ablation procedure, or if you're planning to have a specific type of ablation called 'cryoablation', you won't be eligible. Also, if you have certain medical conditions like severe kidney problems, or if you are pregnant, the study wouldn't be suitable for you.
Other reasons for not being able to take part include having certain medical implants like a pacemaker, having severe claustrophobia (which would make an MRI scan difficult), or having allergic reactions to the special dyes sometimes used in scans. If doctors find that your initial scans aren't clear enough, you might also be excluded.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you scheduled to have your very first AF ablation procedure soon?
- Do you have a pacemaker or other specific metal implants?
- Do you have severe kidney problems or are you pregnant?
- Are you able to provide written permission (consent) to take part?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will have two special heart scans: a CT scan and an MRI scan. These scans are usually part of your normal care before an AF ablation, but in this study, the doctors will be analysing them in a particular way.
You will have your planned AF ablation procedure as normal. After your procedure, the study will follow your health for one year to see if your AF recurs. This follow-up will likely involve your usual doctor's appointments, where your heart rhythm will be checked. The total duration of your active involvement will mostly revolve around the scans and your usual follow-up care for 12 months after your ablation.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Pitie-SalpetriereVerified postcodeParis, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is AF ablation?
AF ablation is a procedure to correct an irregular heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation) when medicines haven't worked well enough.
What are CT and MRI scans?
CT and MRI are special types of medical scans that take detailed pictures of the inside of your body, in this case, your heart.
Will I get any extra treatment in this study?
No, you will receive your planned AF ablation as usual. This study uses information from your existing scans and follow-up.
How long will I be involved in the study?
You'll be involved up to one year after your AF ablation, mainly through your routine follow-up appointments.
Can I stop participating if I change my mind?
Yes, you can withdraw from the study at any time without it affecting your medical care.
How to find out more
Estelle GANDJBAKHCH, MD, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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