Inducing and suppressing ventricular fibrillation: A simulation study with three-dimensional heart model and experimental data

Ventricular fibrillation was simulated using three-dimensional heart model incorporating anatomic and electrophysiologic details. A parameter relating restitution of premature action potential durations to coupling interval of stimulation was defined and incorporated into the heart model to simulate the cell dynamics. Conduction delay during relative refractory period was also taken into account. During sinus pacing extra-stimuli were applied to the left ventricular epicardium of the heart model. As long as up to 8 seconds of the sequential excitation process of the heart model and the resultant electrocardiograms on a torso model were computed. Ventricular fibrillation was successfully induced and suppressed by employing experimental data obtained from dogs before and during the infusion of antiarrhythmic drugs.