Vagal Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Persistent AF

The goal of this clinical trial is to answer the question whether a transcutaneous stimulation of a certain nerve (Nervus vagus) with a dedicated device reduces the recurrence of the heart rhythm disorder atrial fibrillation. Participants will receive a dedicated nerval stimulation device and will treat themselves on a daily basis for at least an hour per day. Treatment will last for 3 months. Researchers will compare this group with a similar group that uses an ineffective device. Both researcher and patients will be blinded so they do not know which device they will be using.