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Computer‐Simulated Alternative Modes of U‐Wave Genesis
Author(s) -
DEPOLLI MATJAŽ,
AVBELJ VIKTOR,
TROBEC ROMAN
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
journal of cardiovascular electrophysiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.193
H-Index - 138
eISSN - 1540-8167
pISSN - 1045-3873
DOI - 10.1111/j.1540-8167.2007.00978.x
Subject(s) - repolarization , ventricle , action (physics) , medicine , u wave , coupling (piping) , set (abstract data type) , cardiac action potential , cardiology , physics , electrocardiography , electrophysiology , quantum mechanics , computer science , mechanical engineering , engineering , programming language
Objective: Several hypotheses for the origin of the U wave in electrocardiograms have been proposed. We have set out to explore and test alternative modes for U‐wave genesis via computer simulations. Methods and Results: A spatial model of a left ventricle has been constructed from 12 layers composed of cubic cells. Each cell is assigned its own time‐dependent action potential with its own contribution to the electrical potential at arbitrary points where ECGs are measured. Simulated ECGs show that U waves can be generated using various combinations of action potentials (APs) across the different layers of the ventricular wall. We demonstrate a new mode of U‐wave genesis, even with small differences in the repolarization. Conclusion: The U wave can be generated in the presence of strong intercellular coupling. Myocardial layers with prolonged action potentials, like M cells, are not necessarily needed for U‐wave genesis.