Predicting Development of SCAF in Device Patients

What this study is about

Atrial fibrillation (AF) often starts with short episodes of rapid irregular heartbeats that are only detected by implanted pacemakers or defibrillators. Usually people don't know that they have these episodes. Over time, these episodes can happen more often and last for longer periods. In some people, the heart eventually remains permanently in a fast irregular rhythm, known as atrial fibrillation. This condition can lead to strokes and blood clots. If physicians could detect atrial fibrillation at a very early stage they could treat people early and possibly prevent the condition from becoming permanent. People with implanted devices allow a unique opportunity to constantly monitor the heart rhythm so investigators can detect any irregularities immediately. Investigators don't know which people are at risk of developing short episodes of fast irregular heartbeats that can lead to atrial fibrillation. The purpose of this study is to find out if there are proteins or chemical changes in the blood that can predict the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. These chemical changes, also known as biomarkers, may also be able to give investigators other clues about atrial fibrillation.

Who can join (things the study team will check)

✅ You may be able to join if…

• Dual chamber permanent pacemaker or defibrillator implanted within previous 10 years

🚫 You may not be able to join if…

• Clinical atrial fibrillation documented by surface ECG (12 lead ECG, Telemetry, Holter)
• Participants considered by the investigator to be unsuitable for the study for the following reason: life expectancy less than 2 years due to concomitant disease
• Participants who are pregnant or breast-feeding
• Congenital heart disease
• Inherited arrhythmia syndrome, i.e. Brugada, long QT interval

Where this trial is running

• University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Who to contact

Tammy Knight · 613-696-7000 · tknight@ottawaheart.ca

It's completely normal to call and ask questions before deciding anything. Mention the study ID: NCT02808260.