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Impact of Intracardiac Neurons on Cardiac Electrophysiology and Arrhythmogenesis in an Ex Vivo Langendorff System
Published on: May 22, 2018
[Present and future of cardiac function tests: electrophysiologic tests]
M Nakagawa1, M Ichinose, M Watanabe
1Department of Laboratory Medicine, Oita Medical University, Oita-gun, Oita-pref. 879-5593.
Rinsho Byori. the Japanese Journal of Clinical Pathology
|January 5, 2002
Summary
Recent advancements in electrocardiogram (ECG) technology focus on cardiac repolarization parameters like QT dispersion and autonomic function assessments. New tools enhance diagnosis and treatment for various cardiac conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology and Electrophysiology
- Diagnostic Technologies in Cardiovascular Medicine
Context:
- The evolution of electrocardiogram (ECG) systems, initiated by Einthoven's 12-lead system, spans nearly a century.
- Current research explores novel cardiac repolarization parameters, including transmural dispersion of repolarization, T wave alternans, and QT dispersion, to assess ventricular repolarization.
- Established methods like Holter ECG for heart rate variability and head-up tilt tests for autonomic function remain crucial diagnostic tools.
Purpose:
- To review the development and clinical utility of various electrocardiographic and physiological tests.
- To highlight emerging parameters for assessing cardiac ventricular repolarization and autonomic function.
- To discuss advancements in electrophysiological studies (EPS) and catheter ablation technologies, including electroanatomical mapping systems.
Summary:
- QT dispersion, while proposed to reflect regional ventricular repolarization, faces challenges in clinical acceptance due to unresolved issues.
- Heart rate variability from Holter ECG and head-up tilt tests are valuable for assessing autonomic tone and diagnosing syncope.
- Innovations like the CARTO system for three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping are transforming catheter ablation procedures.
- Transtelephonic ECG with computer-assisted analysis offers a practical approach for diagnosing and managing paroxysmal cardiac symptoms.
Impact:
- These evolving diagnostic and therapeutic tools aim to improve the management of complex cardiac conditions.
- Advancements in electrophysiology and mapping systems are enhancing the precision and efficacy of interventional cardiac procedures.
- Improved diagnostic capabilities can lead to earlier detection and more effective treatment strategies for patients with cardiac arrhythmias and syncope.
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