Electro-mechanical modeling of the myocardium: coupling and feedback mechanisms

Computer-aided simulations of the heart provide knowledge for cardiological diagnosis and therapy. A model of the myocardium is presented which allows the reconstruction of electrical and mechanical processes with the inclusion of feedback mechanisms. The model combines detailed models of cellular electrophysiology and force development with models of the electrical current flow and the mechanical behavior of the myocardium. The results of simulations show the connection between the electrical excitation process and the following mechanical deformation in a 3D anisotropic area of the myocardium