Effect of the stellate ganglion on atrial fibrillation and atrial electrophysiological properties and its left-right asymmetry in a canine model.

Unilateral electrical stimulation of the SG in combination with RAP can successfully establish a canine model of acute AF mediated by excessive sympathetic activity. SG stimulation facilitates AF induction and aggravates electrical remodelling in sites in the atrium and pulmonary vein. Inhibiting sympathetic nerve activation through unilateral stellate ganglionectomy can reduce AF initiation.