Effects of Atrial Dilatation on Refractory Period and Vulnerability to Atrial Fibrillation in the Isolated Langendorff-Perfused Rabbit Heart

Abstract

Increased atrial pressure in the isolated rabbit heart resulted in a significant increase in vulnerability to AF that was closely correlated to shortening of the AERP. These changes were completely reversible within 3 minutes after release of the atrial stretch, resulting in prompt termination of AF.