Trial design
The POP study is a prospective, open-label, single centre, investigator-initiated, randomized controlled clinical trial (NCT05148338). Eligible patients referred for catheter ablation by other cardiologists in non-interventional hospitals will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to usual current temporary care or an elaborate lifestyle intervention. If a patient experiences a major reduction in AF symptoms during the pre-procedural work-up, the cardiologist will counsel the patient whether the ablation should be cancelled. Patients from both study groups will undergo a PVI according to common clinical practise. After the ablation or from the moment of the decision of the cancellation of ablation, patients will be followed for 12 months. Follow-up visits will be performed at 3 and 12 months after ablation and consist of a physical examination next to laboratory tests and quality of life questionnaires. A detailed study flow chart is shown in Fig. Study flowchart of the POP trial (prevention to improve outcomes after PVI). 