Anatomico-electrophysiological correlations in the conduction system--a review.

As viewed through the retrospectroscope,l it seems that Thomas Lewis bestrode the narrow worlds of cardiology and electrophysiology of his time as the colossus which was Caesar.2 His contributions were many and their legacies have been varied. It is difficult with modem day techniques to improve on the collaborative work in which he and the Oppenheimers established the functional import- ance of the sinus node.3 In contrast, his views concerning the spread of excitation from the sinus node kindled and have fuelled a controversy which is as yet unresolved.4 5 In this review, it is our intention to compare our own experience in anatomical, electrophysiological, and clinical cor- relations of the conduction system with those of Sir Thomas, and of other past and present workers in this fascinating and ever-expanding field.