From Signals to Colours

For decades clinical electrophysiology has been considered a discipline for adepts, able to interpret not so obvious intracardiac signals. With the advent of new technologies, offering a three-dimensional reconstruction of cardiac anatomy and generating colour-coded maps, the approach to the complex world of electrophysiology is changing: A three-dimensional colour-coded electroanatomic map of a left atrium could be a precise and self-explanatory representation based on intracavitary signals, on which correct diagnosis is made and successul ablation is performed. As expected, this makes the difference especially in cases exhibiting complex arrhythmias (atypical atrial flutters, postsurgical arrhythmias), in which the task could be really tough.§The book is based on a multicentre experience and describes the most difficult cases of each centre, as far as arrhythmia is concerned. For each case, the crucial role of electroanatomic mapping in providing unique information and new insights in a field still in evolution is very evident. The book will prove to be very a useful tool for all the operators working in this field.In this lavishly illustrated atlas, a selection of very difficult cases of arrhythmias is presented, in which correct diagnosis and successful ablation have been guided by the integration of conventional intracavitary signals and electroanatomic mapping. In each case a short introduction, procedure details and outcome, and a brief commentary are given. Throughout, the crucial role of electroanatomic mapping in providing new insights in a field still in evolution is very evident.