Experimental models of ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation caused by ischemia and infarction.

Experimental animal models of ventricular arrhythmias have been developed to elucidate mechanisms of arrhythmogenesis in humans. Studies of animal models have enabled the vulnerable period of the ventricles to be discovered and characterized and should eventually lead to improved techniques of defibrillation. Animal models of ischemic heart disease and myocardial infarction have also helped investigators elucidate the mechanisms of arrhythmias occurring at each stage of infarct development and healing. Data obtained from the experimental studies have been shown to apply to the clinical situation.