Endovascular stimulation within the left pulmonary artery to induce slowing of heart rate and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

Objective: In recent years there have been many reports dealing with basic models for sustained atrial fibrillation (AF), however few animal models exist for paroxysmal AF which closely simulate that seen clinically.

Methods: In 12 dogs, anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital, a right thoracotomy was performed. We stabilized a basket electrode catheter within the left pulmonary artery (LPA) through a purse string suture in the right ventricle.