Cell-Based Tachyarrhythmias and Bradyarrhythmias

Arrhythmias can have immediate clinical consequences because effective cardiac output is determined by efficient electromechanical coupling of the myocardium and coordination between and within cardiac chambers. This chapter will discuss specific bradyarrhythmias and tachyarrhythmias, providing an overview of their pathophysiology, clinical characteristics and treatment options. As the heart constitutes a functional syncytium, the cellular basis of arrhythmia will first be discussed before considering its effects across the larger myocardial mass as well as clinical manifestations.