Dominant Frequency
The most prevalent frequency component in atrial fibrillation, used to identify drivers and guide ablation strategies.
Full Definition
Dominant frequency refers to the most prevalent frequency component present in atrial fibrillation electrograms, typically calculated using fast Fourier transform analysis. Areas with the highest dominant frequency are thought to represent drivers or sources that maintain the arrhythmia and may serve as optimal ablation targets. Dominant frequency analysis has been used to identify atrial fibrillation rotors, focal sources, and areas of rapid activation that could be critical for arrhythmia maintenance. This technique provides insights into atrial fibrillation mechanisms beyond conventional mapping approaches.
Usage
Usage note: Measured in Hz. Research technique not yet in routine clinical practice at most centers.
In Context
- "Dominant frequency mapping revealed a high-frequency site in the left atrial appendage that was targeted for ablation." — Advanced mapping study
- "Areas with the highest dominant frequency were prioritized during the substrate modification approach." — Research protocol