Antegrade Conduction
Electrical impulse transmission in the normal forward direction through cardiac conduction pathways.
Full Definition
The propagation of electrical impulses through the heart's conduction system in the physiological direction, from atria to ventricles via the AV node and His-Purkinje system. In the context of accessory pathways, antegrade conduction refers to impulse transmission from atrium to ventricle through the bypass tract. Assessment of antegrade conduction properties is crucial in electrophysiology studies for understanding pathway characteristics, refractory periods, and potential for participating in tachyarrhythmias. Antegrade conduction can be evaluated through incremental pacing and extrastimulus testing.
Usage
Usage note: Note spelling 'antegrade' not 'anterograde' in cardiology contexts.
In Context
- "Antegrade conduction over the accessory pathway was blocked at cycle lengths less than 300 milliseconds." — EP study report
- "The patient demonstrated preserved antegrade conduction through the AV node despite retrograde dual pathways." — Clinical findings summary