A novel method with which to visualize the human sinuatrial node: Application for a better understanding of the gross anatomy of this part of the conduction system.

Clin Anat. 2020 Mar;33(2):232-236. doi: 10.1002/ca.23459. Epub 2019 Sep 8.

Nooma K, Saga T, Iwanaga J, Tabira Y, Watanabe K, Tubbs RS, Yamaki KI.

Abstract

For various clinical/surgical procedures, it is important to accurately understand the location of the sinuatrial node (SAN). Therefore, this study's goal was to develop a new and simple method to visualize the SAN in human hearts. A total of 16 formalin-fixed human hearts were used in the study. After the epicardium was removed, the fat tissue on the myocardium's surface was brushed and removed in a solution of 40°C water with a surfactant to show the SAN's location. Once the structure considered to be the SAN was observed, histological observation was conducted with Masson's trichrome staining to confirm its identity. The working myocardium, SAN branch of the coronary artery, and the structure believed to be the SAN were observed in all specimens. Histological analysis confirmed this structure to be the SAN. We believe that the method described herein might contribute to a better understanding of the SAN's morphologic features and serve as an improved teaching aide. Clin. Anat. 33:232-236, 2020.

KEYWORDS:

anatomy; arrhythmias; cadaver; conduction system; heart; sinuatrial node; sulcus terminalis

Tyler LawsAugust 5, 2020anatomy; arrhythmias; cadaver; conduction system; heart; sinuatrial node; sulcus terminalisComment