Rate-dependent block in the sinus venosa of the swine heart during transverse right atrial activation: correlation between electrophysiologic and anatomic findings.

Unlabelled: Rate-dependent block in the sinus venosa.

Introduction: Whether the crista terminalis or the sinus venosa result in rate-dependent block during transverse activation of the right atrial activation remains unknown. In the present study, right atrial activation at different cycle lengths was studied in the swine heart using high-resolution noncontact mapping (Endocardial Solutions).

Lymph sampling and lymphangiography via EUS-guided transesophageal thoracic duct puncture in a swine model.

Background: The thoracic duct plays an important role in fluid balance, lipid absorption, and transport of immunologically active cells. The thoracic duct is difficult to access but is readily identified by EUS. The present study assessed the feasibility of EUS identification and EUS-guided puncture of the thoracic duct in a swine model.

Anatomy of the crocodilian spinal vein.

The crocodilian spinal vein is remarkably robust yet historically overlooked. Using corrosion casting, we describe the anatomy of this vessel and its connections with the caval and hepatic venous systems in representatives from four crocodilian genera. The spinal vein arises from an enlarged occipital sinus over the medulla and extends the entire length of the vertebral column.