Magnetocardiographic localization of focal arrhythmias using an equivalent current dipole source model

Magnetocardiography (MCG) is a non-invasive measurement technique that provides spatial and temporal information describing electrical currents flowing in the heart. In clinical application of this technique, it is desirable to minimize patient measurement and data analysis time by using the simplest protocol yielding acceptable results. The ability of MCG to localize the onset of focal cardiac arrhythmias is explored. MCG localizations based on an equivalent current dipole model are compared with the results of subsequent invasive electrophysiologic mapping. Good agreement (within 4 cm) between the two data sources existed in all patients having spontaneous arrhythmia episodes during the MCG measurement session.