Chronic Augmentation of the Parasympathetic Tone to the Atrioventricular Node: A Nonthoracotomy Neurostimulation Technique for Ventricular Rate Control During Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Chronic parasympathetic stimulation can be achieved via a cardiac neurostimulator. The approach is safe, effective, and well tolerated in the long term. The atrioventricular nodal selectivity and the opportunity to adjust the negative dromotropic effect within seconds may represent an advantage over pharmacological rate control.