Assessing Arrhythmias After Ablation Using Implantable Recorders

The purpose of this study is to determine if continuous monitoring using an implantable loop
recorder (ie. a device that is placed just underneath the skin of the chest and monitors the
heart rate and rhythm) for a year long period after atrial fibrillation ablation may be
superior to the current conventional monitoring strategy used by us for determination of
atrial fibrillation recurrence (ie. return of the abnormal heart rhythm) and/or arrythmia
burden (ie. how long the abnormal rhythm continues or how often the rhythm occurs). Some data
suggests that continuous monitoring over longer periods may be better in identifying
recurrence of atrial fibrillation after ablation and thus assist in its overall management.
The device being used for this study is the Reveal XT, which, is currently FDA approved for
monitoring all varieties of cardiac rhythm disorders including atrial fibrillation.