Mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias: from automaticity to re-entry (reentry)

Mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias: from automaticity to re-entry (reentry)

Mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias: from automaticity to re-entry This chapter aims to present the most common arrhythmias in clinical practice. The initial discussion will focus on the mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias. Although a detailed understanding of the mechanisms underlying cardiac arrhythmias is not necessary for all clinicians, it is wise to invest time in grasping the concepts as it will facilitate the understanding of subsequent articles and chapters. This chapter starts with a discussion on arrhythmogenesis (mechanisms of arrhythmias) and thereafter each arrhythmia is discussed separately. It is appropriate to subdivide cardiac arrhythmias into the following groups: Bradyarrhythmia s  ( bradycardia ):  arrhythmias that are typically due to dysfunctional automaticity in pacemaker cells or blocking of impulses somewhere along the conduction system. Supraventricular tachyarrhythmias (tachycardia):  arrhythmias in which the impulses emanate from the atria. Ventricular tachyarrhythmias (ta…

Continue reading...