A simulation framework for dual chamber heart rhythm and cardiac pacing

A previously developed open source computer model allows realistic simulation of ventricular intervals in atrial fibrillation, while taking into account of ventricular pacing. In this paper, we further improve this model and present a new simulation framework based on an integrated dual-chamber heart and pacer (IDHP) model. The IDHP model incorporates more realistic atrial and ventricular rhythm generators and an industry-standard dual-chamber pacemaker timing control logic. Moreover, it simulates various interactions between intrinsic heart activity and extrinsic cardiac pacing. The IDHP model provides a new simulation platform where it is possible to bench test advanced pacemaker algorithms in the presence of different types of cardiac rhythms.