Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2026

High-Resolution Endocardial and Epicardial Optical Mapping in a Sheep Model of Stretch-Induced Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: July 29, 2011
Persistent tachycardia originating from the superior vena cava as a driver for atrial fibrillation
Hiroshi Tada1, Shigeto Naito, Kentaro Meguro
1Division of Cardiology, Gunma Prefectural Cardiovascular Center, Kameizumi, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan. tada.h@cvc.pref.gunma.jp
Abstract:
We describe a patient with drug-resistant paroxysmal atrial fibrillation who underwent radiofrequency catheter ablation of tachycardia originating from the superior vena cava (SVC). A continuous and rapid tachycardia conducted to the atrium with evidence of exit block and drove atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial tachycardia. Neither AF nor atrial tachycardia could be induced after SVC isolation, and nor were they observed during follow-up. We conclude that continuous and rapid tachycardia originating from the SVC can act as a driver as well as an initiator of AF.
Related Concept Videos
Dysrhythmias II: Classification of Tachyarrhythmias
Dysrhythmias III: Characteristics of Dysrhythmias
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias
Disturbances in Heart Rhythm
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
Increased pulse rate
Many factors can elevate the risk of developing tachycardia. These include advanced age, a family history of arrhythmias, and an...
Mechanism of Cardiac Arrhythmias
