On the mechanism of myocardial sensitization to catecholamines by hydrocarbon anesthetics
During the past decade, considerable progress has been made in our understanding of the mechanism underlying sensitization of the heart to the arrhythmogenic action of catecholamines by hydrocarbon anesthetics. This review includes the following: a brief discussion on the concepts of the mechanisms of induction of cardiac arrhythmias; recent studies on sensitization with special reference to the primary locus of this action and the principal mechanisms involved; and the contributions made by microelectrode studies on various types of cardiac tissue and the importance of cardiodynamic effects. In addition, atrioventricular conduction studies using bundle of His preparations are described. Drug interaction between anesthetic agents, muscle relaxants, and other drugs are discussed. Suggestions for future research and a section of summary and conclusions are included.