Atrial anatomy influences onset and termination of atrial fibrillation: A computer model study

N.H.L. Kuijpers, H.M.M. Eikelder, ten, S. Verheule

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionAcademicpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Vulnerability to atrial fibrillation (AF) is increased in acutelydilated atria and is related to stretch-activated channels (SACs). To investigatethe role of atrial anatomy in AF, we apply a computer model ofhuman atrial electromechanics that includes SACs and contraction of thesarcomeres. Trabecular bundle structures are modeled by varying atrialwall thickness in a triangular mesh representing the human atria. Vulnerabilityto AF is investigated by application of overall stretch, whilestimulating near the pulmonary veins. Due to contraction of some areas,stretch increases in other areas, leading to a variation in effectiverefractory period (ERP). Onset and perpetuation of AF in our model isexplained by an increased dispersion in ERP, conduction slowing, andlocal conduction block. Atrial contraction attributes to the terminationof AF through mechanoelectric feedback. We conclude that onset andtermination of AF episodes under stretch are related to atrial structureand mechanoelectric feedback.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationFunctional imaging and modeling of the heart : proceedings of the 5th international conference, (FIMH 2009) Nice, France, June 3-5, 2009
EditorsN. Ayache, H. Delingette, M. Sermesant
Place of PublicationBerlin
PublisherSpringer
Pages285-294
ISBN (Print)978-3-642-01931-9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2009
Event5th International Conference on Functional Imaging and Modeling of the Heart (FIMH 2009), June 3-5, 2009, Nice, France - Nice, France
Duration: 3 Jun 20095 Jun 2009

Publication series

NameLecture Notes in Computer Science
Volume5528
ISSN (Print)0302-9743

Conference

Conference5th International Conference on Functional Imaging and Modeling of the Heart (FIMH 2009), June 3-5, 2009, Nice, France
Abbreviated titleFIMH 2009
Country/TerritoryFrance
CityNice
Period3/06/095/06/09

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