The History of Mapping

Electrophysiological mapping includes sequence of activation mapping, refractory period mapping, and voltage mapping, each of which has its own history. This review is focused on the origin and development of activation mapping. Although areas of study of clinical cardiac electrophysiology did not originate until the late 1960s, activation mapping with electrodes on the surface of the heart had its origin 6 decades earlier, and has continued to develop until incorporated into the study of experimental and clinical electrophysiology of normal and abnormal cardiac rhythms. This is a story of advances in technology that provided the tools that enabled investigators to develop and advance the field of experimental and clinical cardiac electrophysiology of normal and abnormal cardiac rhythms. We have come a long way from the early days of using the string galvanometer, and, subsequently, for decades, the roving electrode probe or catheter. This progress would not have been possible if not for the many dedicated scientists and clinicians who developed and continue to develop the field.