Heart rhythm showdown: ablation vs. electric shock for AF
NCT ID NCT06096246
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study compares two procedures for treating persistent atrial fibrillation (AF): catheter ablation (which scars tiny areas in the heart to block faulty signals) and DC cardioversion (an electric shock to restore normal rhythm). Researchers want to see which one better prevents AF from coming back. About 208 adults with persistent AF lasting less than 2 years will be randomly assigned to one of the two procedures and monitored with an implanted loop recorder.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Catheter ablation (pulmonary vein isolation) and DC cardioversion
What this could lead to
If ablation proves superior, it could become the preferred first-line procedure for persistent atrial fibrillation, reducing recurrence and the need for repeat procedures.
What could go wrong
This is a relatively small (208 participants) randomized trial. Ablation is an invasive procedure with risks like bleeding, infection, or heart damage, and results may not apply to all AF patients.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Barts Heart Centre
RECRUITINGLondon, EC1A 7BE, United Kingdom
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••