Value of Screening and Treatment of Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome in the Management of Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Candidates

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the value of screening for Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome (SAHS) and its treatment in managing patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who have not responded to antiarrhythmic drugs and may be candidates for ablation. This prospective, non-randomized cohort study aims to determine whether identifying and treating SAHS can improve heart rhythm outcomes and potentially reduce the need for AF ablation. The study focuses on patients with paroxysmal or persistent AF who have recurrent symptoms despite medication and have no prior SAHS diagnosis. Participants first complete a questionnaire to assess their risk for SAHS. Those at low risk follow standard AF care, while those at intermediate or high risk undergo home respiratory polygraphy and continuous heart rhythm monitoring using a Kardia recorder. Patients diagnosed with SAHS receive treatment based on usual care practices such as lifestyle changes or CPAP therapy. The study monitors heart rhythm and sleep apnea measures before and after SAHS treatment to evaluate changes and their impact on AF symptoms. After three months, the need for AF ablation is reassessed, and patients who remain symptomatic despite treatment may proceed to ablation. Throughout the study, participants regularly record their heart rhythm and undergo follow-up sleep studies to assess changes in apnea severity and arrhythmia. Researchers compare arrhythmic load over six months and analyze outcomes after ablation for those who require it. The study includes ongoing monitoring of SAHS treatment and arrhythmia for up to one year, with the goal of understanding how managing SAHS affects AF outcomes and ablation candidacy.

Value of Screening and Treatment of SAHS in the Management of AF Ablation Candidates