Which term refers to a change in speed of impulse conduction in the myocardium?

The term that specifically refers to a change in the speed of impulse conduction within the myocardium is associated with dromotropic drugs. These agents modify the conduction velocity through the heart's conduction system, particularly the atrioventricular (AV) node. By affecting how quickly electrical impulses travel, dromotropic drugs can influence heart rate and rhythm, thereby playing a critical role in the treatment of various cardiac conditions, such as arrhythmias.

Inotropic drugs are primarily linked to changes in the force of myocardial contraction, while chronotropic drugs affect heart rate by altering the pacing of the sinoatrial (SA) node. Vasodilators, on the other hand, work to relax and widen blood vessels, which can influence blood flow and pressure but do not directly impact conduction speed in the myocardium. Understanding these distinctions is essential in cardiology and perfusion practice, as it informs appropriate therapeutic choices based on the underlying cardiac condition being treated.