The "heart brain" and neuromodulation for vasovagal syncope

Abstract

It is well known that the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a major contributor in etiopathogenesis of vasovagal syncope (VVS). Catheter based neuromodulation (CNA) of the intrinsic cardiac ANS has evolved rapidly from being an experimental unproven procedure to its current status as an increasingly performed ablation procedure in many major hospitals worldwide. The present review aims to bring the anatomical elements of intrinsic cardiac ANS and clinical application of intrinsic cardiac neuromodulation together, by reviewing anatomical terminologies and clinical data, in order to provide a practical assistance to the electrophysiology community.

Keywords: Autonomic nervous system; Bradycardia; Cardioneuroablation; Ganglionated plexus; Parasympathetic; Vagal nerve.