Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 31, 2026
28:13
Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
Convergent Hybrid Ablation Versus Catheter Ablation in Patients With Persistent Atrial Fibrillation and Heart
Omar Ahmed1, Elijah R Behr1,2, Sarah White1
1Cardiovascular and Genomics Research Institute,School of Health and Medical Sciences City St George's, University of London Cranmer Terrace London SW17 0RE UK.
Journal of the American Heart Association
|May 30, 2026
Summary
Hybrid ablation offers a promising approach for managing persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) in heart failure patients. This trial investigates its effectiveness compared to catheter ablation for improved rhythm control.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Heart Failure Management
Background:
- Persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) combined with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) significantly increases morbidity and mortality.
- Current catheter ablation techniques for persistent AF in HFrEF patients yield suboptimal outcomes.
- Convergent hybrid ablation, integrating epicardial and endocardial approaches, shows potential for more durable rhythm control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy and safety of convergent hybrid ablation versus catheter ablation for persistent AF in patients with HFrEF.
- To address the lack of randomized data comparing ablation strategies in this high-risk population.
Main Methods:
- The HALT AF trial is a multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial.
- 120 patients with nonparoxysmal AF and LVEF <50% will be randomized to hybrid or catheter ablation.
- The primary efficacy endpoint is freedom from recurrent arrhythmia at 12 months off antiarrhythmic drugs, post-ablation.
Main Results:
- This section is not yet available as the study is ongoing.
- The primary safety endpoint is major adverse cardiovascular events within 30 days.
- Secondary endpoints include assessments of cardiac remodeling, biomarkers, symptoms, and quality of life.
Conclusions:
- HALT AF is the first randomized trial comparing convergent hybrid and catheter ablation in persistent AF with reduced LVEF.
- The study aims to provide crucial evidence for rhythm control strategies in this underrepresented, high-risk group.
- Findings will inform guideline recommendations for managing AF in HFrEF patients.
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