In normal AV nodal conduction, which pathway predominantly conducts impulses to the ventricles?

In normal AV nodal conduction, which pathway predominantly conducts impulses to the ventricles?

• A. The fast pathway
• B. The slow pathway
• C. Both pathways equally
• D. Neither pathway

Answer: (A)

The ventricles are predominantly activated through the faster conducting path within the AV node. The AV node has two routes: a fast pathway and a slow pathway. The fast pathway transmits impulses to the ventricles more quickly, producing the shorter AV delay that is typical of normal conduction. The slow pathway conducts more slowly and is usually not used for normal conduction unless conditions change (for example, when the fast pathway is blocked or refractory). This is why, under normal circumstances, the fast pathway is the main route for impulses to reach the ventricles.

The ventricles are predominantly activated through the faster conducting path within the AV node. The AV node has two routes: a fast pathway and a slow pathway. The fast pathway transmits impulses to the ventricles more quickly, producing the shorter AV delay that is typical of normal conduction. The slow pathway conducts more slowly and is usually not used for normal conduction unless conditions change (for example, when the fast pathway is blocked or refractory). This is why, under normal circumstances, the fast pathway is the main route for impulses to reach the ventricles.