Anatomic Considerations Relevant to Atrial and Ventricular Arrhythmias

Anatomy of the Ventricular Outflow Tracts: An Electrophysiology Perspective

Outflow tract ventricular arrhythmias are the most common type of idiopathic ventricular arrhythmia. A systematic understanding of the outflow tract anatomy improves procedural efficacy and enables electrophysiologists to anticipate and prevent complications. This review emphasizes the three-dimensional spatial relationships between the ventricular outflow tracts using seven anatomical principles. In turn, each principle is elaborated on from a clinical perspective relevant for the practicing electrophysiologist. The developmental anatomy of the outflow tracts is also discussed and reinforced with a clinical case.

Myocardial ischemia simulation based on a multi-scale heart electrophysiology model

BACKGROUND

Myocardial ischemia, caused by insufficient myocardial blood supply, is a leading cause of human death worldwide. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the prevention and treatment of this condition. Mathematical modeling is a powerful technique for studying heart diseases.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to discuss the quantitative relationship between extracellular potassium concentration and the degree of myocardial ischemia directly related to it.

METHODS

A human cardiac electrophysiological multiscale model was developed to calculate action potentials of all cells simultaneously, enhancing efficiency over traditional reaction-diffusion models.

RESULTS

Contrary to the commonly held view that myocardial ischemia is caused by an increase in extracellular potassium concentration, our simulation results indicate that level 1 ischemia is associated with a decrease in extracellular potassium concentration.

CONCLUSION

This unusual finding provides a new perspective on the mechanisms underlying myocardial ischemia and has the potential to lead to the development of new diagnostic and treatment strategies.