Do You Have an Irregular Heart Rhythm?

Study Summary

The University of Chicago and Dr. Knight and his study team are conducting a research study to determine whether an experimental device is as safe and works better than medicine alone for treating an abnormal heart rhythm called paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

People who can participate in this study will have been diagnosed with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and are a candidate for ablation (a procedure that eliminates extra electrical pathways within the heart that cause fast or irregular heart beats). Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is a condition where the upper chambers of the heart (the atria) beat in an irregular pattern because of electrical impulses that travel along inappropriate pathways in your heart. The word "paroxysmal" means that the abnormal heart beat can stop on its own.

You will be in this study for one year.

You may not benefit from participation in this study. However, if this procedure is effective, it may improve your quality of life and reduce the need for medication or repeat ablations or other therapies.

Participation Details

Initial selection criteria include:

• You have had at least three episodes of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation within the past six months
• You are between 18 and 75 years of age
• You can’t be pregnant or become pregnant while on this study
• Must be available for clinic visits for the duration of the study
• Must meet study medical criteria as evaluated by Dr. Knight

Study Director: Dr. Bradley Knight
Department: Cardiology

For more information contact:
Al McAuley
(773) 702-5877
amcauley@medicine.bsd.uchicago.edu

IRB: #15784A