Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common clinical arrhythmias. Catheter ablation is an effective therapeutic strategy; however, recurrence rates remain substantial, ranging from 20% to 45%. Previous studies have established a strong association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and the risk of AF recurrence following ablation. While continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the standard intervention for OSA, and some observational studies suggest it may reduce post-ablation recurrence in patients with comorbid OSA, small randomized controlled trials have failed to confirm a clear benefit, potentially due to poor adherence.
This study aims to evaluate the clinical benefit of post-ablation CPAP therapy in AF patients with comorbid OSA.
Participants will:
* Be randomly assigned to either the CPAP group or the usual care group. * If in the CPAP group, use a CPAP device for 12 months. * Wear an ambulatory ECG recorder for a 7-day period at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post-operation. * Complete follow-up checkups either at the clinic or over the phone at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after their procedure.
Age 18-75 years.
Patients with persistent AF scheduled for first-time catheter ablation.
Diagnosed with OSA.
Able to tolerate CPAP therapy.
Secondary AF.
Left atrial anteroposterior diameter 60mm (measured via parasternal long-axis view).
Left ventricular ejection fraction < 30%.
Comorbid moderate-to-severe mitral stenosis or history of prosthetic valve replacement (mechanical or bioprosthetic).
Beijing Anzhen Hospital
Lead sponsor