Atrioventricular node Atrioventricular node The atrioventricular node, or AV node is a part of the electrical conduction system of the heart that coordinates the top of the heart. It electrically connects the atria and ventricles. The AV node lies at the lower back section of the interatrial septum near the opening of the coronary sinus, which conducts the normal electrical impulse from the atria to the ventricles. The AV node is quite compact (~1 x 3 x 5 mm). The AV node lies at the lower back section of the interatrial septum near the opening of the coronary sinus, which conducts the
Sinoatrial block delayed or blocked on the way to the atria, thus delaying the atrial beat. (An AV block, occurs in the AV node and delays ventricular depolarisation). SA blocks are categorized into three classes based on the length of the delay. Sinoatrial blocks are typically well-tolerated. They are not as serious as an AV block and most often do not require treatment. In some people, they can cause fainting, altered mental status, chest pain, hypoperfusion, and signs of shock. They can also lead to cessation of the SA node and more serious dysrhythmias. In a first degree sinoatrial block, there is