Local Abnormal Ventricular Activity
Also written as: LAVA — Local Abnormal Ventricular Activity
Abnormal electrical signals recorded from diseased ventricular tissue, characterized by low amplitude and fractionated morphology.
Full Definition
Local abnormal ventricular activity (LAVA) refers to discrete, low-amplitude electrical signals recorded from areas of abnormal ventricular myocardium during sinus rhythm or ventricular pacing. These signals typically have amplitudes less than 1.5 mV, exhibit fractionated morphology, and occur after the far-field ventricular electrogram. LAVA represents activation of slowly conducting tissue within or at the border of scar tissue and serves as a surrogate marker for arrhythmogenic substrate. Elimination of LAVA has emerged as an important endpoint in ventricular tachycardia ablation, as these signals often represent critical components of reentrant circuits.
Usage
Usage note: Use acronym LAVA after first mention. Maintain capitalization in LAVA throughout document.
In Context
- "Extensive LAVA was identified throughout the anteroseptal scar region." — Substrate mapping report
- "Complete elimination of local abnormal ventricular activity was achieved with substrate ablation." — Ablation procedure note