Wave similarity of human ventricular fibrillation from bipolar electrograms

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this report was to review existing techniques for assessment of directionality in fibrillation and to describe the concept of wave similarity analysis in human VF. Methods: We applied a technique called wave similarity analysis to bipolar electrograms to study directionality during various rhythms (sinus rhythm, ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation) in humans. This technique uses the barycentre to determine the activation time and a similarity index is calculated using a technique described previously for AF studies Results: We show here that using the wave similarity concept it is possible to recognize myocardial regions that are activated from multiple directions and differentiate those areas from regions that are activated by wave fronts in similar direction or at the exact mirror angle in ventricular fibrillation. Conclusions: Wave similarity analysis provides a tool for assessing directional organization in human VF. This analysis of directional organization may have implications for the study of mechanisms of VF in the clinical arena. © 2007 Oxford University Press.