Using computer models to investigate basic mechanisms of atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF), leading to an irregular and rapid heart rate in the smaller/upper chambers of the heart, is the most common sustained heart rhythm disturbance. AF is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality.

However, the current clinical treatment for AF is suboptimal.

The PhD student will develop image-based mathematical/computer models by including the most accurately measured human functional and structural data and use them to investigate the basic mechanisms behind AF and the effective ablation strategy for AF termination.

The proposed project is part of an international collaboration.

http://www.abi.auckland.ac.nz/people/j-zhao