Low-Level Tragus Stimulation Modulates Atrial Alternans and Fibrillation Burden in Patients With Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation.

ABSTRACT: Background Low-level tragus stimulation (LLTS) has been shown to significantly reduce atrial fibrillation (AF) burden in patients with paroxysmal AF. P-wave alternans (PWA) is believed to be generated by the same substrate responsible for AF. Hence, PWA may serve as a marker in guiding LLTS therapy. We investigated the utility of PWA in guiding LLTS therapy in patients with AF. Methods and Results Twenty-eight patients with AF were randomized to either active LLTS or sham (earlobe stimulation). LLTS was delivered through a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device (pulse width 200 μs, frequency 20 Hz, amplitude 10-50 mA), for 1 hour daily over a 6-month period. AF burden over 2-week periods was assessed by noninvasive continuous ECG monitoring at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months.

SUBMITTER: Kulkarni K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8477868 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature