Intensive Molecular and Electropathological Characterization of Patients Undergoing Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

Rationale: Although there are several individual factors which are known to influence the chances of successful atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, it remains a challenge to identify patients at risk for ablation failure with satisfactory certainty. Objectives: To identify predictors of success of AF ablation including clinical factors, AF recurrence patterns, anatomical and electrophysiological characteristics, circulating biomarkers and individual genetic background. Study design: Prospective registry of patients undergoing AF ablation. Clinical characteristics and results of routine tests are collected. In addition, the following (non-standard) tests are performed: extended surface electrocardiogram (extECG), extended rhythm monitoring, biomarker testing, genetic analysis, questionnaires. In subgroups of patients transesophageal electrocardiogram (TE-ECG), epicardial electroanatomical mapping and/or left atrial appendage (LAA) biopsy is performed. Study population: Patients aged 18 years and older with documented AF, scheduled for AF ablation. Main study endpoints: Ablation success after 12 and 24 months, defined as freedom from any episode of documented atrial arrhythmia after the blanking period.