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Published in:

01-03-2011

Evidence for impaired vagus nerve activity in heart failure

Authors: Steve Bibevski, Mark E. Dunlap

Published in: Heart Failure Reviews | Issue 2/2011

Abstract

Parasympathetic control of the heart via the vagus nerve is the primary mechanism that regulates beat-to-beat control of heart rate. Additionally, the vagus nerve exerts significant effects at the AV node, as well as effects on both atrial and ventricular myocardium. Vagal control is abnormal in heart failure, occurring at early stages of left ventricular dysfunction, and this reduced vagal function is associated with worse outcomes in patients following myocardial infarction and with heart failure. While central control mechanisms are abnormal, one of the primary sites of attenuated vagal control is at the level of the parasympathetic ganglion. It remains to be seen whether or not preventing or treating abnormal vagal control of the heart improves prognosis.

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Title: Evidence for impaired vagus nerve activity in heart failure
Authors: Steve Bibevski
Mark E. Dunlap
Publication date: 01-03-2011
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Heart Failure Reviews / Issue 2/2011
Print ISSN: 1382-4147
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7322
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10741-010-9190-6

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