Sinus Node & Atrial Depolarization


Learn about the cardiac cycle and how it starts with the sinus node and atrial depolarization.
Ppencil drawing of the heart anatomy highlighting the sinus node

The start of the cardiac cycle 

The sinus node is a horseshoe-shaped collection of specialized cells found at the superoanterior junction of the superior vena cava and the right atrium. Every cardiac cycle (heartbeat) begins with the sinus node sending an electrical signal across both atria through specialized conduction tracts, which causes the atrial muscle to depolarize and contract. The P wave appears on the surface ECG, and blood is actively propelled into the ventricles through the open AV valves.

Graphical representation of a PCG of a normal sinus rhythm

 

Normal audio

The opening of the atrioventricular valves and movement of blood is normally silent.

S4

The opening of the atrioventricular valves and subsequent transfer of blood from the atria to the ventricles is normally silent. A fourth heart sound, also known as S4, heard during this time period is a marker of diastolic heart failure. S4 is thought to be caused by the vibrations produced when a wave of propelled atrial blood strikes abnormally stiff left ventricular walls. S4 appears just before S1 and is heard loudest at the apex auscultation position.

Graphical representation of an ECG highlighting the P-wave

 

P wave

The electrical signal sent by the sinus node and resulting depolarization of the atria is recorded by the P wave in an ECG. The P wave in Lead II is an upright half-circle with a normal duration up to 120 msec and height up to 2.5 mm. It is usually of largest amplitude in Lead II. Atrial repolarization is so small in magnitude that it generally is not visible in the ECG.

Graphic representing an ECG showing a peaked p-wave

 

Peaked P wave

Peaked P waves are abnormally tall. Lead II peaked P waves have a height greater than 2.5 mm and typically indicate enlargement of the right atrium. Lead II peaked P waves have a duration within normal P wave limits (up to 120 msec).
Prolonged P Wave

Graphical representation of an ECG showing a prolonged P Wave

 

Prolonged P wave

Lead II P waves that have normal height (less than 2.5 mm) but are abnormally wide (longer than 120 msec) can suggest left atrial enlargement. These p waves may include a deep notch that divides the P wave into two peaks. 

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