CONVERT AF

Title: CONVERT AF (CONcomitant  eValuation of Epicor left atRial Therapy for AF)

Study sponsor: St. Jude Medical

Principal Investigator: Vibhu Kshettry, MD

Study synopsis: The purpose of this research study is to test the safety and effectiveness of new claims for a device used to ablate heart tissue during open heart surgery. This device, called the Epicor LP Cardiac Ablation System, has been previously approved by the FDA. However, this device has not been approved specifically for the treatment of atrial fibrillation.

The ablation procedure consists of destroying the irritable abnormal tissue that is causing the extra heart beats to occur. The ablation system uses high intensity focused ultrasound as an energy source to ablate heart tissue in the left atrium. The device will produce lesions and ultimately scar tissue will form to block the abnormal electrical impulses from being conducted through the heart.

Follow-up for the study consists of a 30 day phone call and clinic visits at 2, 3 and 6 months.  

How do I qualify? Subjects must have permanent atrial fibrillation and be undergoing another open heart surgical procedure such as bypass grafting or valve surgery.

Study status: Currently enrolling

Who do I contact for more information? Peg Demmer, RN, CCRC, at peg.a.demmer@allina.com or 612-863-6066