Catheter Ablation for Recently Diagnosed Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Randomized Comparison of Catheter Ablation Versus Anti-arrhythmic Drug Therapy in Patients With Recently Diagnosed Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation as Assessed by a Continuous Implantable Monitor

The objective is to compare the progression of Atrial Fib (AF) burden by continuous monitoring in patients with recently diagnosed paroxysmal AF treated by catheter ablation (PVI) versus anti-arrhythmic drug (AAD) therapy.

Randomized, multicenter clinical trial comparing medical therapy (Group I) with ablation therapy(Group II). Randomization will be determined by opening a sealed envelope. All patients will be implanted with an implantable loop recorder and followed every three months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with recently diagnosed paroxysmal AF who are eligible to receive specific rhythm control therapy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous treatment with Class IC or class III AAD
• Previous AF ablation procedure
• Congestive heart failure (NYHA III-IV functional class)
• Left Ventricle ejection fraction less than 35%
• Left atrial diameter > 55mm
• Unwillingness to participate