Study of Heart Function and Exercise Ability After Catheter Ablation for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Using Cardiac MRI

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to observe and measure changes in the hearts left atrial reservoir function during exercise and overall exercise capacity in patients who have undergone catheter ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation AF. It focuses on understanding how the procedure affects heart performance during physical activity and its relationship to exercise ability over time. Participants undergo various tests including cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging at rest and during submaximal exercise, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, transthoracic echocardiograms before and after peak exercise, and ambulatory cardiac rhythm assessments. They also complete self-reported questionnaires about their activity level and the impact of AF on quality of life. All assessments are conducted at baseline and again 5 to 6 months after ablation to track changes. Throughout the study, participants are monitored for changes in heart function and exercise capacity using detailed imaging and exercise tests. Researchers evaluate multiple outcome measures including changes in left atrial and left ventricular function reserves at submaximal exercise, and correlations between these heart functions and oxygen levels during exercise. The total observation period includes baseline and follow-up testing approximately 150 to 180 days after the ablation procedure.

EXercise Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Assessment of Left Atrial Mechanics Following Ablation