Recent studies demonstrated that radiofrequency isolation of the pulmonary veins (PVI) is a superior alternative to antiarrhythmic drug therapy in patients with symptomatical paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). A substantial proportion of patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery also suffer from atrial fibrillation. No evidence exists if epicardial PVI is beneficial in patients with a history of AF undergoing coronary bypass surgery (CABG) for the concomitant treatment of AF. The investigators aim to establish the effectiveness of incorporating epicardial pulmonary vein isolation into elective cardiac surgery.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
2
After the CABG procedure, a bilateral epicardial pulmonary vein isolation is performed under general anaesthesia and double-lumen endotracheal ventilation.
Management of atrial fibrillation according to current guidelines using rate control pharmacological therapy.
Medisch Spectrum Twente
Enschede, Overijssel, Netherlands
Recurrence of atrial fibrillation
The percentage of patients without a recurrence of AF, without antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs), within a follow-up period of at least 12 months after a stabilisation period of 90 days after the initial procedure. An episode of AF is defined as an episode of at least 30 seconds duration.
Time frame: one year
Duration of hospitalization
Secondary objectives include the duration of hospitalization
Time frame: One year
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.