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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
09:17
High-Resolution Endocardial and Epicardial Optical Mapping in a Sheep Model of Stretch-Induced Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: July 29, 2011
Mapping of atrial fibrillation: lessons learnt
Mitchell M de Boer1, Paul Knops1, Natasja M S de Groot1
1Department of Cardiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
Indian Pacing and Electrophysiology Journal
|June 8, 2026
Summary
High-density epicardial mapping offers new insights into atrial fibrillation (AF) pathophysiology. Understanding AF substrates is crucial for developing effective, substrate-based treatments beyond pulmonary vein isolation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Pulmonary vein isolation shows limited efficacy for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF).
- A substrate-based treatment approach is needed for complex AF.
- The underlying mechanisms and substrates of AF remain incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the contribution of high-density and resolution epicardial mapping (HDREM) to understanding AF pathophysiology.
- To discuss electrical phenomena during different clinical stages of AF.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on high-density and resolution epicardial mapping (HDREM).
- Discussion of electrical phenomena observed during AF, including signal fractionation, cycle length variability, focal waves, rotational activity, conduction velocity, block, anisotropy, and endo-epicardial asynchrony.
Main Results:
- HDREM provides novel insights into AF pathophysiology.
- Detailed investigation of electrical phenomena is necessary for understanding AF substrates.
- Electrical phenomena such as signal fractionation, variability, focal waves, and anisotropy are key aspects of AF.
Conclusions:
- HDREM is a valuable tool for elucidating AF pathophysiology.
- Further research into AF mechanisms and substrates is essential for advancing treatment strategies.
- Understanding complex electrical phenomena is critical for developing targeted AF therapies.
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