Heart technologies company, AtriCure, Inc., has announced a first patient enrollment in the CEASE (Combined Endoscopic Epicardial and Percutaneous) AF clinical study.
Background
AtriCure is a leading innovator in treatments for atrial fibrillation (Afib) and left atrial appendage management. The newly announced, so-called CEASE AF study will be the largest of its kind to date, covering over 200 patients, comparing interventional ablation strategies in the setting of patients presenting with persistent AF with enlarged left atrium (> 4 cm patients) and longstanding persistent AF, which reflects a difficult to treat patient-subgroup.
The study will compare the results of a combined epicardial surgical plus endocardial catheter technique versus a standard endocardial catheter ablation technique for safety, efficacy and quality of life for patients with persistent or long-standing persistent Afib. In addition, the effects on economic measures of the two treatment strategies will be evaluated.
The first procedure was performed at the Sana Heart Center Stuttgart, Germany by Prof. Dr. Kai-Nicolas Doll, M.D.
Investigator comments
“This is the first international prospective randomized multicenter study of its kind in these type of patients,” said Professor Doll.
“Until the CEASE AF study, studies were mostly single site.”
Company comments
Michael Carrel, President and Chief Executive Officer of AtriCure stated; “This is another significant milestone for AtriCure as we continue our advancements in the fight against Afib. This important study focuses on a new standard of care for difficult to treat patients.”
Source: Business Wire
published: December 17, 2015 in: Cardio, Clinical Studies/Trials