Related Experiment Videos
The mechanism of flutter electrical alternans
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|March 1, 1981
Summary
Flutter electrical alternans, characterized by alternating wave patterns, may be caused by catheter movement artifact rather than true cardiac electrical changes. This challenges previous understandings of this phenomenon.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Atrial flutter electrical alternans is a recognized phenomenon.
- Its underlying mechanisms are not fully understood.
- Previous explanations have focused on intrinsic cardiac electrical activity.
Observation:
- Two distinct populations of flutter waves were observed, alternating in 1:1 and 2:1 patterns.
- Flutter alternans (2:1 or 3:1) showed concordance with preceding ventricular conduction patterns (ventriculophasic variation).
- This concordance was reproducible and consistent.
Findings:
- The observed flutter alternans pattern was likely a mechanical artifact caused by catheter movement during ventricular systole.
- The pattern was consistently reproduced at slower rates during coronary sinus pacing.
- This suggests a mechanical origin for certain types of atrial flutter electrical alternans.
Implications:
- Challenges the interpretation of electrical alternans as solely an electrical phenomenon.
- Suggests the need to consider mechanical artifacts in diagnosing atrial flutter.
- May lead to revised diagnostic criteria and improved understanding of cardiac signal interpretation.