This study is looking at whether a faster heart rate set by a pacemaker can improve how well people with persistent atrial fibrillation (a type of irregular heartbeat) and heart failure can exercise. Specifically, it compares a pacing rate of 80 beats per minute (bpm) to 60 bpm. You might be able to join if you are 18 to 90 years old, have persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation, and had a cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device or conduction system pacing implanted between 3 months and 5 years ago. You also need to have had an intrinsic AVN block (a problem with the heart's electrical system) or AVN ablation (a procedure to treat irregular heartbeats) in the same timeframe, and a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 50% or higher. The main goal is to see if the 80 bpm pacing rate improves your exercise tolerance, measured by how far you can walk in six minutes, after 3 months. The current recruitment status is unclear.

Study design

This is a randomized crossover study involving 60 participants. Participants will switch between a pacing rate of 60 bpm and 80 bpm.

What's involved

You would have an electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, pacemaker check, blood tests, and a six-minute walk test at the start, 3 months, and 6 months.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

Participants will be followed for 6 months, with the primary endpoint measured at 3 months.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.