Automating phase singularity localization in mathematical models of cardiac tissue dynamics

Abstract

Electrical wave-fronts are responsible for contraction in heart tissue. Rotary wave-fronts break up into daughter waves and it is this break up that is believed to underlie ventricular fibrillation. Mathematical methods abound for simulation of fibrillation, and localizing the core of rotary wave-fronts (the phase singularities) is key to characterizing the state of fibrillation and effectiveness of defibrillation in these models. We present a formal method for automating this process in these various models. Automation will allow for side-by-side comparisons of suggested mechanisms of fibrillation, comparison of various models of these mechanisms and faster evaluation of defibrillation strategies making use of these models. © The author 2005. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications. All rights reserved.