The pacemaking and conduction system (PCS) is vital for generating and synchronizing the heart beat. Dysfunction of this system can be a direct cause of cardiac conduction disturbance, arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. A wealth of information has been collected over many years on the unique histological, morphological and phenotypic characteristics of specialized cardiac tissues. The cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern development of the PCS are now starting to be understood. This book draws together contributions from an international and interdisciplinary group of experts working on both basic and clinical aspects of cardiac development. It features reviews of the structure and function of the developing PCS, discussion of the molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating embryological development of this system and studies on the fundamental basis of PCS pathology. The book also considers how novel therapeutic interventions based on understanding of the developmental biology of cardiac pacemaking and conduction tissues might ultimately impact on clinical medicine.

The heart beats an estimated three billion times during the lifespan of the average person. Each of these cycles of contraction depends on specialized cardiac tissues involved in the rhythmic generation and coordinated spread of electrical excitation. Collectively, these tissues are known as the pacemaking and conduction system—the PCS. Since the PCS is vital for generating and synchronizing the heartbeat, its dysfunction can be a direct cause of cardiac conduction disturbance, arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Recent advances have meant that the cellular and molecular mechanisms governing the development of the PCS in tissues are now starting to be understood. This book brings together a group of leading researchers to discuss emerging concepts in this exciting field. In particular, the new understanding of the cellular origin and the molecular induction of PCS tissues during embryogenesis, together with the burgeoning technology of stem cell manipulation, provides the foundation for tissue engineering, replacement and repair of PCS tissues in humans. The book also identifies therapeutic targets arising from basic discoveries in the developmental biology of cardiac pacemaking and conduction tissues.

This monograph had its genesis in a workshop on the specific conduction held in the spring of 1975. The meeting was organized to discuss present knowledge on structure and function of the cardiac specialized tissues with emphasis on their clinical implications. Since much new information was presented, the participants agreed to prepare manuscripts and make their material available for publication. This has resulted in a book in which the cardiac specialized tissues are discussed by different specialists: the electron-microscopist, anatomist, pathologist, physiologist, physicist and clinician. Apart from their interest in the cardiac conduction system the participants shared the opinion that their contribu tion should be relevant to the understanding and treatment of patients with cardiac arrhythmias. The book should be useful for the clinician, the morphologist and the physio logist. The workshop took place at the University Department of Cardiology, Wilhelmina Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. This is the home ground of one of the most outstanding electro cardiologists of our time, Dr. Dirk Durrer. By pairing genius and originality with endless fund of energy and dogged persistence he made several important contributions to modern cardiac electrophysiology. In recent years he created a cardio logical institute where workers from various disciplines cooperate in the study and treat ment of cardiac disease. Several of his pupils participated in the workshop and contributed to this volume. In appreciation and thankfulness we want to dedicate this book to Dr. Dirk Durrer.

Sunao Tawara's epoch-making work on the excitation conduction system of the mammalian heart paved the way for the advancement of modern cardiology in the 20th century. Even today, more than 90 years after the publication of the German monograph “Das Reizleitungssystem des Säugetierherzen”, his precise account of the conduction system from the atrioventricular node through the His-Purkinje system to the ordinary ventricular muscle fibers retains all of its original actuality.This English edition of Tawara's monograph will serve as an invaluable reference for both basic and clinical cardiological research in the years ahead.

This authoritative book explores electrophysiologic testing and therapeutic catheter ablation for cardiac arrhythmias in children, and in patients of all ages with congenital heart disease. It reviews the anatomic and physiologic background to these procedures, emphasizing the tools for mapping and tissue ablation that continue to improve patient outcomes. Additionally, individual chapters are dedicated to specific congenital heart defects (for instance, tetralogy of Fallot, Ebstein’s anomaly, univentricular heart) guiding the reader to anticipate the type of arrhythmia, the most likely location for effective ablation, and the technical challenges that may be encountered in each condition. Key Features Provides a detailed review of the unique challenges presented by young patients with small heart size, and patients of any age with distorted anatomy due to congenital heart disease, in this long overdue, updated text Intends to guide all cardiologists engaged in invasive electrophysiology at both the training level and established practice who are exposed to such exceptional cases Includes an internationally recognized group of experts who discuss the technical approaches, success rates, complication rates, and special precautions needed to achieve optimal outcomes

This book covers the latest information on the anatomic features, underlying physiologic mechanisms, and treatments for diseases of the heart. Key chapters address animal models for cardiac research, cardiac mapping systems, heart-valve disease and genomics-based tools and technology. Once again, a companion of supplementary videos offer unique insights into the working heart that enhance the understanding of key points within the text. Comprehensive and state-of-the art, the Handbook of Cardiac Anatomy, Physiology and Devices, Third Edition provides clinicians and biomedical engineers alike with the authoritative information and background they need to work on and implement tomorrow’s generation of life-saving cardiac devices.

One of the most time-consuming tasks in clinical medicine is seeking the opinions of specialist colleagues. There is a pressure not only to make referrals appropriate but also to summarize the case in the language of the specialist. This book explains basic physiologic and pathophysiologic mechanisms of cardiovascular disease in a straightforward manner, gives guidelines as to when referral is appropriate, and, uniquely, explains what the specialist is likely to do. It is ideal for any hospital doctor, generalist, or even senior medical student who may need a cardiology opinion, or for that ma.

Clearly presents the pathology of heart disease from fetus to adolescence, integrating histology and macroscopy with effects of treatment.

Part of the highly regarded Braunwald's family of cardiology references, Clinical Arrhythmology and Electrophysiology, 3rd Edition, offers complete coverage of the latest diagnosis and management options for patients with arrhythmias. Expanded clinical content and clear illustrations keep you fully abreast of current technologies, new syndromes and diagnostic procedures, new information on molecular genetics, advances in ablation, and much more. - Key topics such as inherited channelopathies; atrial fibrillation; ventricular tachycardia; hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, and congenital heart disease. - Dozens of videos depicting key mapping techniques, and fluoroscopy images illustrating techniques for electrophysiologic catheter positioning, atrial septal puncture, and pericardial access, cryoablation, and left atrial appendage exclusion procedures. - Grounds clinical techniques in basic science for managing complex patients. - Consistent organization, showing every arrhythmia in a similar manner for quick reference. - New management options with increased clinical content. - Expert ConsultTM eBook version included with purchase. This enhanced eBook experience allows you to search all of the text, figures, and references from the book on a variety of devices.