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Noheria A, Shahab A, Andrews C, Cuculich PS, Rudy Y. Pilot study to evaluate left-to-right ventricular offset in biventricular pacing-comparison of electrocardiographic imaging and ECG. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2024; 35:1185-1195. [PMID: 38591763 DOI: 10.1111/jce.16272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Biventricular pacing (BiVp) improves outcomes in systolic heart failure patients with electrical dyssynchrony. BiVp is delivered from epicardial left ventricular (LV) and endocardial right ventricular (RV) electrodes. Acute electrical activation changes with different LV-RV stimulation offsets can help guide individually optimized BiVp programming. We sought to study the BiVp ventricular activation with different LV-RV offsets and compare with 12-lead ECG. METHODS In five patients with BiVp (63 ± 17-year-old, 80% male, LV ejection fraction 27 ± 6%), we evaluated acute ventricular epicardial activation, varying LV-RV offsets in 20 ms increments from -40 to 80 ms, using electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI) to obtain absolute ventricular electrical uncoupling (VEUabs, absolute difference in average LV and average RV activation time) and total activation time (TAT). For each patient, we calculated the correlation between ECGI and corresponding ECG (3D-QRS-area and QRS duration) with different LV-RV offsets. RESULTS The LV-RV offset to attain minimum VEUabs in individual patients ranged 20-60 ms. In all patients, a larger LV-RV offset was required to achieve minimum VEUabs (36 ± 17 ms) or 3D-QRS-area (40 ± 14 ms) than that for minimum TAT (-4 ± 9 ms) or QRS duration (-8 ± 11 ms). In individual patients, 3D-QRS-area correlated with VEUabs (r 0.65 ± 0.24) and QRS duration correlated with TAT (r 0.95 ± 0.02). Minimum VEUabs and minimum 3D-QRS-area were obtained by LV-RV offset within 20 ms of each other in all five patients. CONCLUSIONS LV-RV electrical uncoupling, as assessed by ECGI, can be minimized by optimizing LV-RV stimulation offset. 3D-QRS-area is a surrogate to identify LV-RV offset that minimizes LV-RV uncoupling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Noheria
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Ahmed Shahab
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Christopher Andrews
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Phillip S Cuculich
- Cardiovascular Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Yoram Rudy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Verstappen AAA, Hautvast R, Jurak P, Bracke FA, Rademakers LM. Ventricular dyssynchrony imaging, echocardiographic and clinical outcomes of left bundle branch pacing and biventricular pacing. Indian Pacing Electrophysiol J 2024; 24:140-146. [PMID: 38657736 PMCID: PMC11143746 DOI: 10.1016/j.ipej.2024.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) is a novel physiological pacing technique which may serve as an alternative to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) by biventricular pacing (BVP). This study assessed ventricular activation patterns and echocardiographic and clinical outcomes of LBBP and compared this to BVP. METHODS Fifty consecutive patients underwent LBBP or BVP for CRT. Ventricular activation mapping was obtained by ultra-high-frequency ECG (UHF-ECG). Functional and echocardiographic outcomes and hospitalization for heart failure and all-cause mortality after one year from implantation were evaluated. RESULTS LBBP resulted in greater resynchronization vs BVP (QRS width: 170 ± 16 ms to 128 ± 20 ms vs 174 ± 15 to 144 ± 17 ms, p = 0.002 (LBBP vs BVP); e-DYS 81 ± 17 ms to 0 ± 32 ms vs 77 ± 18 to 16 ± 29 ms, p = 0.016 (LBBP vs BVP)). Improvement in LVEF (from 28 ± 8 to 42 ± 10 percent vs 28 ± 9 to 36 ± 12 percent, LBBP vs BVP, p = 0.078) was similar. Improvement in NYHA function class (from 2.4 to 1.5 and from 2.3 to 1.5 (LBBP vs BVP)), hospitalization for heart failure and all-cause mortality were comparable in both groups. CONCLUSIONS Ventricular dyssynchrony imaging is an appropriate way to gain a better insight into activation patterns of LBBP and BVP. LBBP resulted in greater resynchronization (e-DYS and QRS duration) with comparable improvement in LVEF, NYHA functional class, hospitalization for heart failure and all-cause mortality at one year of follow up.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rick Hautvast
- Department of Cardiology, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Pavel Jurak
- The Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Scientific Instruments, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Frank A Bracke
- Department of Cardiology, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
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Nguyên UC, Prinzen FW, Vernooy K. Left ventricular lead placement in cardiac resynchronization therapy: Current data and potential explanations for the lack of benefit. Heart Rhythm 2024; 21:197-205. [PMID: 37806647 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2023.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
The present article reviews the literature on image-guided cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) studies. Improved outcome to CRT has been associated with the placement of a left ventricular (LV) lead in the latest activated segment free from scar. The majority of randomized controlled trials investigating guided LV lead implantation did not show superiority over conventional implantation approaches. Several factors may contribute to this paradoxical observation, including inclusion criteria favoring patients with left bundle branch block who already respond well to conventional anatomical LV lead implantation, differences in activation wavefronts during simultaneous right ventricular and LV pacing, incorrect definition of target regions, and limitations in coronary venous anatomy that prevent access to target regions that are detected by imaging. It is imperative that exclusion of patients lacking access to target regions from these studies would lead to larger benefit of image-guided CRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uyên Châu Nguyên
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Frits W Prinzen
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Fairbank T, DeBauge A, Harvey CJ, Jiwani S, Ranka S, Beaver TA, Sheldon SH, Reddy M, Noheria A. Electrocardiographic Z-axis QRS-T voltage-time-integral in patients with typical right bundle branch block - Correlation with echocardiographic right ventricular size and function. J Electrocardiol 2024; 82:73-79. [PMID: 38043477 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Right bundle branch block (RBBB) can be benign or associated with right ventricular (RV) functional and structural abnormalities. Our aim was to evaluate QRS-T voltage-time-integral (VTI) compared to QRS duration and lead V1 R' as markers for RV abnormalities. METHODS We included adults with an ECG demonstrating RBBB and echocardiogram obtained within 3 months of each other, between 2010 and 2020. VTIQRS and VTIQRST were obtained for 12 standard ECG leads, reconstructed vectorcardiographic X, Y, Z leads and root-mean-squared (3D) ECG. Age, sex and BSA-adjusted linear regressions were used to assess associations of QRS duration, amplitudes, VTIs and lead V1 R' duration/VTI with echocardiographic tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), RV tissue Doppler imaging S', basal and mid diameter, and systolic pressure (RVSP). RESULTS Among 782 patients (33% women, age 71 ± 14 years) with RBBB, R' duration in lead V1 was modestly associated with RV S', RV diameters and RVSP (all p ≤ 0.03). QRS duration was more strongly associated with RV diameters (both p < 0.0001). AmplitudeQRS-Z was modestly correlated with all 5 RV echocardiographic variables (all p ≤ 0.02). VTIR'-V1 was more strongly associated with TAPSE, RV S' and RVSP (all p ≤ 0.0003). VTIQRS-Z and VTIQRST-Z were among the strongest correlates of the 5 RV variables (all p < 0.0001). VTIQRST-Z.√BSA cutoff of ≥62 μVsm had sensitivity 62.7% and specificity 65.7% for predicting ≥3 of 5 abnormal RV variables (AUC 0.66; men 0.71, women 0.60). CONCLUSION In patients with RBBB, VTIQRST-Z is a stronger predictor of RV dysfunction and adverse remodeling than QRS duration and lead V1 R'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyan Fairbank
- The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Ashley DeBauge
- The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Christopher J Harvey
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Sania Jiwani
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Sagar Ranka
- Division of Cardiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Timothy A Beaver
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Seth H Sheldon
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Madhu Reddy
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Amit Noheria
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America.
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Dural M, Ghossein MA, Gerrits W, Daniels F, Meine M, Maass AH, Rienstra M, Prinzen FW, Vernooy K, van Stipdonk AMW. Association of vectorcardiographic T-wave area with clinical and echocardiographic outcomes in cardiac resynchronization therapy. Europace 2023; 26:euad370. [PMID: 38146837 PMCID: PMC10766142 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Data on repolarization parameters in cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) are scarce. We investigated the association of baseline T-wave area, with both clinical and echocardiographic outcomes of CRT in a large, multi-centre cohort of CRT recipients. Also, we evaluated the association between the baseline T-wave area and QRS area. METHODS AND RESULTS In this retrospective study, 1355 consecutive CRT recipients were evaluated. Pre-implantation T-wave and QRS area were calculated from vectorcardiograms. Echocardiographic response was defined as a reduction of ≥15% in left ventricular end-systolic volume between 3 and 12 months after implantation. The clinical outcome was a combination of all-cause mortality, heart transplantation, and left ventricular assist device implantation. Left ventricular end-systolic volume reduction was largest in patients with QRS area ≥ 109 μVs and T-wave area ≥ 66 μVs compared with QRS area ≥ 109 μVs and T-wave area < 66 μVs (P = 0.004), QRS area < 109 μVs and T-wave area ≥ 66 μVs (P < 0.001) and QRS area < 109 μVs and T-wave area < 66 μVs (P < 0.001). Event-free survival rate was higher in the subgroup of patients with QRS area ≥ 109 μVs and T-wave area ≥ 66 μVs (n = 616, P < 0.001) and QRS area ≥ 109 μVs and T-wave area < 66 μVs (n = 100, P < 0.001) than the other subgroups. In the multivariate analysis, T-wave area remained associated with echocardiographic response (P = 0.008), but not with the clinical outcome (P = 0.143), when QRS area was included in the model. CONCLUSION Baseline T-wave area has a significant association with both clinical and echocardiographic outcomes after CRT. The association of T-wave area with echocardiographic response is independent from QRS area; the association with clinical outcome, however, is not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammet Dural
- Department of Cardiology, Eskişehir Osmangazi University Faculty of Medicine, Odunpazarı, Eskişehir 26040, Turkey
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht 6202, The Netherlands
| | - Mohammed A Ghossein
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Willem Gerrits
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Fenna Daniels
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mathias Meine
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander H Maass
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Michiel Rienstra
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Frits W Prinzen
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht 6202, The Netherlands
| | - Antonius M W van Stipdonk
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht 6202, The Netherlands
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DeBauge A, Fairbank T, Harvey CJ, Ranka S, Jiwani S, Sheldon SH, Reddy M, Beaver TA, Noheria A. Electrocardiographic prediction of left ventricular hypertrophy in women and men with left bundle branch block - Comparison of QRS duration, amplitude and voltage-time-integral. J Electrocardiol 2023; 80:34-39. [PMID: 37178633 PMCID: PMC10846562 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2023.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Standard ECG criteria for left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy rely on QRS amplitudes. However, in the setting of left bundle branch block (LBBB), ECG correlates of LV hypertrophy are not well established. We sought to evaluate quantitative ECG predictors of LV hypertrophy in the presence of LBBB. METHODS We included adult patients with typical LBBB having ECG and transthoracic echocardiogram performed within 3 months of each other in 2010-2020. Orthogonal X, Y, Z leads were reconstructed from digital 12‑lead ECGs using Kors's matrix. In addition to QRS duration, we evaluated QRS amplitudes and voltage-time-integrals (VTIs) from all 12 leads, X, Y, Z leads and 3D (root-mean-squared) ECG. We used age, sex and BSA-adjusted linear regressions to predict echocardiographic LV calculations (mass, end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes, ejection fraction) from ECG, and separately generated ROC curves for predicting echocardiographic abnormalities. RESULTS We included 413 patients (53% women, age 73 ± 12 years). All 4 echocardiographic LV calculations were most strongly correlated with QRS duration (all p < 0.00001). In women, QRS duration ≥ 150 ms had sensitivity/specificity 56.3%/64.4% for increased LV mass and 62.7%/67.8% for increased LV end-diastolic volume. In men, QRS duration ≥ 160 ms had a sensitivity/specificity 63.1%/72.1% for increased LV mass and 58.3%/74.5% for increased LV end-diastolic volume. QRS duration was best able to discriminate eccentric hypertrophy (area under ROC curve 0.701) and increased LV end-diastolic volume (0.681). CONCLUSIONS In patients with LBBB, QRS duration (≥ 150 in women and ≥ 160 in men) is a superior predictor of LV remodeling esp. eccentric hypertrophy and dilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley DeBauge
- The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Tyan Fairbank
- The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Christopher J Harvey
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Sagar Ranka
- Division of Cardiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Sania Jiwani
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Seth H Sheldon
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Madhu Reddy
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Timothy A Beaver
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America
| | - Amit Noheria
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America.
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Parale C, Bootla D, Jain A, Satheesh S, Anantharaj A, Ahmed AS, Sukumaran SK, Balaguru S, Selvaraj R. Comparison of electrocardiographic parameters between left bundle optimized cardiac resynchronization therapy (LOT-CRT) and left bundle branch pacing-cardiac resynchronization therapy (LBBP-CRT). Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2023; 46:840-847. [PMID: 37477545 DOI: 10.1111/pace.14793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy using left bundle branch area pacing (LBBP-CRT), the addition of a coronary sinus lead, that is, Left bundle optimized CRT (LOT-CRT) might confer additional benefits. OBJECTIVES To compare the electrocardiographic characteristics between LBBP-CRT and LOT-CRT MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICMP) and left bundle branch block (LBBB) with left ventricular ejection fraction <35% who underwent implantation of an atrial lead, a left bundle lead, and a coronary sinus lead were included in this prospective study. Digital 12-lead electrocardiograms were recorded in three pacing modes-AAI, DDD with pacing from the LBB lead (LBBP-CRT), and DDD with pacing from both left bundle and coronary sinus leads (LOT-CRT). QRS duration (QRSd), QRS area, QT interval, and T peak-T end (TpTe) intervals were compared. RESULTS Among 24 patients, QRSd reduced from 167 ± 21.2 ms to 134.5 ± 23.6 ms with LBBP-CRT (p < .001) and 129.5 ± 18.6 ms with LOT-CRT (p < .001) without a significant difference between LBBP-CRT and LOT-CRT (p = .15). Patients with QRS duration with LBBP-CRT > 131 ms showed a significant reduction in QRSd with LOT-CRT (p = .03). QT interval was reduced with both modes of CRT. LOT-CRT was associated with a greater reduction in QRS area (p = .001), TpTe interval (p = .03), and TpTe/QT ratio (p = .013) compared to LBBP-CRT. CONCLUSIONS In patients with NICMP and LBBB, there was no significant difference in QRSd with LOT-CRT compared to LBBP-CRT. However, in patients with QRSd > 131 ms after LBBP-CRT, LOT-CRT resulted in a significantly narrower QRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinmay Parale
- Department of Cardiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Dinakar Bootla
- Department of Cardiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Ashish Jain
- Department of Cardiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Santhosh Satheesh
- Department of Cardiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Avinash Anantharaj
- Department of Cardiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - A Shaheer Ahmed
- Department of Cardiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Suresh Kumar Sukumaran
- Department of Cardiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Sridhar Balaguru
- Department of Cardiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Raja Selvaraj
- Department of Cardiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
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Meiburg R, Rijks JHJ, Beela AS, Bressi E, Grieco D, Delhaas T, Luermans JGLM, Prinzen FW, Vernooy K, Lumens J. Comparison of novel ventricular pacing strategies using an electro-mechanical simulation platform. Europace 2023; 25:euad144. [PMID: 37306315 PMCID: PMC10259067 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Focus of pacemaker therapy is shifting from right ventricular (RV) apex pacing (RVAP) and biventricular pacing (BiVP) to conduction system pacing. Direct comparison between the different pacing modalities and their consequences to cardiac pump function is difficult, due to the practical implications and confounding variables. Computational modelling and simulation provide the opportunity to compare electrical, mechanical, and haemodynamic consequences in the same virtual heart. METHODS AND RESULTS Using the same single cardiac geometry, electrical activation maps following the different pacing strategies were calculated using an Eikonal model on a three-dimensional geometry, which were then used as input for a lumped mechanical and haemodynamic model (CircAdapt). We then compared simulated strain, regional myocardial work, and haemodynamic function for each pacing strategy. Selective His-bundle pacing (HBP) best replicated physiological electrical activation and led to the most homogeneous mechanical behaviour. Selective left bundle branch (LBB) pacing led to good left ventricular (LV) function but significantly increased RV load. RV activation times were reduced in non-selective LBB pacing (nsLBBP), reducing RV load but increasing heterogeneity in LV contraction. LV septal pacing led to a slower LV and more heterogeneous LV activation than nsLBBP, while RV activation was similar. BiVP led to a synchronous LV-RV, but resulted in a heterogeneous contraction. RVAP led to the slowest and most heterogeneous contraction. Haemodynamic differences were small compared to differences in local wall behaviour. CONCLUSION Using a computational modelling framework, we investigated the mechanical and haemodynamic outcome of the prevailing pacing strategies in hearts with normal electrical and mechanical function. For this class of patients, nsLBBP was the best compromise between LV and RV function if HBP is not possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel Meiburg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jesse H J Rijks
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ahmed S Beela
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Edoardo Bressi
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Policlinico Casilino of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Grieco
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Policlinico Casilino of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Tammo Delhaas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Justin G LM Luermans
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre (Radboudumc), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frits W Prinzen
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center+ (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Lumens
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Wouters PC, van de Leur RR, Vessies MB, van Stipdonk AMW, Ghossein MA, Hassink RJ, Doevendans PA, van der Harst P, Maass AH, Prinzen FW, Vernooy K, Meine M, van Es R. Electrocardiogram-based deep learning improves outcome prediction following cardiac resynchronization therapy. Eur Heart J 2022; 44:680-692. [PMID: 36342291 PMCID: PMC9940988 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS This study aims to identify and visualize electrocardiogram (ECG) features using an explainable deep learning-based algorithm to predict cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) outcome. Its performance is compared with current guideline ECG criteria and QRSAREA. METHODS AND RESULTS A deep learning algorithm, trained on 1.1 million ECGs from 251 473 patients, was used to compress the median beat ECG, thereby summarizing most ECG features into only 21 explainable factors (FactorECG). Pre-implantation ECGs of 1306 CRT patients from three academic centres were converted into their respective FactorECG. FactorECG predicted the combined clinical endpoint of death, left ventricular assist device, or heart transplantation [c-statistic 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.66-0.72], significantly outperforming QRSAREA and guideline ECG criteria [c-statistic 0.61 (95% CI 0.58-0.64) and 0.57 (95% CI 0.54-0.60), P < 0.001 for both]. The addition of 13 clinical variables was of limited added value for the FactorECG model when compared with QRSAREA (Δ c-statistic 0.03 vs. 0.10). FactorECG identified inferolateral T-wave inversion, smaller right precordial S- and T-wave amplitude, ventricular rate, and increased PR interval and P-wave duration to be important predictors for poor outcome. An online visualization tool was created to provide interactive visualizations (https://crt.ecgx.ai). CONCLUSION Requiring only a standard 12-lead ECG, FactorECG held superior discriminative ability for the prediction of clinical outcome when compared with guideline criteria and QRSAREA, without requiring additional clinical variables. End-to-end automated visualization of ECG features allows for an explainable algorithm, which may facilitate rapid uptake of this personalized decision-making tool in CRT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Melle B Vessies
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Antonius M W van Stipdonk
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mohammed A Ghossein
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rutger J Hassink
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter A Doevendans
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands,Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Pim van der Harst
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander H Maass
- Department of Cardiology, Thoraxcentre, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Frits W Prinzen
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mathias Meine
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - René van Es
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
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10
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Mizner J, Jurak P, Linkova H, Smisek R, Curila K. Ventricular Dyssynchrony and Pacing-induced Cardiomyopathy in Patients with Pacemakers, the Utility of Ultra-high-frequency ECG and Other Dyssynchrony Assessment Tools. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2022; 11:e17. [PMID: 35990106 PMCID: PMC9376832 DOI: 10.15420/aer.2022.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The majority of patients tolerate right ventricular pacing well; however, some patients manifest signs of heart failure after pacemaker implantation and develop pacing-induced cardiomyopathy. This is a consequence of non-physiological ventricular activation bypassing the conduction system. Ventricular dyssynchrony was identified as one of the main factors responsible for pacing-induced cardiomyopathy development. Currently, methods that would allow rapid and reliable ventricular dyssynchrony assessment, ideally during the implant procedure, are lacking. Paced QRS duration is an imperfect marker of dyssynchrony, and methods based on body surface mapping, electrocardiographic imaging or echocardiography are laborious and time-consuming, and can be difficult to use during the implantation procedure. However, the ventricular activation sequence can be readily displayed from the chest leads using an ultra-high-frequency ECG. It can be performed during the implantation procedure to visualise ventricular depolarisation and resultant ventricular dyssynchrony during pacing. This information can assist the electrophysiologist in selecting a pacing location that avoids dyssynchronous ventricular activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Mizner
- Department of Cardiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Jurak
- Institute of Scientific Instruments of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Linkova
- Department of Cardiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radovan Smisek
- Institute of Scientific Instruments of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Karol Curila
- Department of Cardiology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
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11
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A single-centre prospective evaluation of left bundle branch area pacemaker implantation characteristics. Neth Heart J 2022; 30:249-257. [PMID: 35380414 PMCID: PMC9043076 DOI: 10.1007/s12471-022-01679-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) has recently been introduced as a physiological pacing technique with synchronous left ventricular activation. It was our aim to evaluate the feasibility and learning curve of the technique, as well as the electrical characteristics of LBBAP. Methods and results LBBAP was attempted in 80 consecutive patients and electrocardiographic characteristics were evaluated during intrinsic rhythm, right ventricular septum pacing (RVSP) and LBBAP. Permanent lead implantation was successful in 77 of 80 patients (96%). LBBAP lead implantation time and fluoroscopy time shortened significantly from 33 ± 16 and 21 ± 13 min to 17 ± 5 and 12 ± 7 min, respectively, from the first 20 to the last 20 patients. Left bundle branch (LBB) capture was achieved in 54 of 80 patients (68%). In 36 of 45 patients (80%) with intact atrioventricular conduction and narrow QRS, an LBB potential (LBBpot) was present with an LBBpot to onset of QRS interval of 22 ± 6 ms. QRS duration increased significantly more during RVSP (141 ± 20 ms) than during LBBAP (125 ± 19 ms), compared to 130 ± 30 ms without pacing. An even clearer difference was observed for QRS area, which increased significantly more during RVSP (from 32 ± 16 µVs to 73 ± 20 µVs) than during LBBAP (41 ± 15 µVs). QRS area was significantly smaller in patients with LBB capture compared to patients without LBB capture (43 ± 18 µVs vs 54 ± 21 µVs, respectively). In patients with LBB capture (n = 54), the interval from the pacing stimulus to R‑wave peak time in lead V6 was significantly shorter than in patients without LBB capture (75 ± 14 vs 88 ± 9 ms, respectively). Conclusion LBBAP is a safe and feasible technique, with a clear learning curve that seems to flatten after 40–60 implantations. LBB capture is achieved in two-thirds of patients. Compared to RVSP, LBBAP largely maintains ventricular electrical synchrony at a level close to intrinsic (narrow QRS) rhythm. Supplementary Information The online version of this article (10.1007/s12471-022-01679-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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12
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Abstract
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a good treatment for heart failure accompanied by ventricular conduction abnormalities. Current ECG criteria in international guidelines seem to be suboptimal to select heart failure patients for CRT. The criteria QRS duration and left bundle branch block (LBBB) QRS morphology insufficiently detect left ventricular activation delay, which is required for benefit from CRT. Additionally, there are various definitions for LBBB, in which each one has a different association with CRT benefit and is prone to subjective interpretation. Recent studies have shown that the objectively measured vectorcardiographic QRS area identifies left ventricular activation delay with higher accuracy than any of the current ECG criteria. Indeed, various studies have consistently shown that a high QRS area prior to CRT predicts both echocardiographic and clinical improvement after CRT. The beneficial relation of QRS area with CRT-outcome was largely independent from QRS morphology, QRS duration, and patient characteristics known to affect CRT-outcome including ischemic etiology and sex. On top of QRS area prior to CRT, the reduction in QRS area after CRT further improves benefit. QRS area is easily obtainable from a standard 12-lead ECG though it currently requires off-line analysis. Clinical applicability will be significantly improved when QRS area is automatically determined by ECG equipment.
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13
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Tokavanich N, Prasitlumkum N, Mongkonsritragoon W, Trongtorsak A, Cheungpasitporn W, Chokesuwattanaskul R. QRS area as a predictor of cardiac resynchronization therapy response: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2022; 45:393-400. [PMID: 35000207 DOI: 10.1111/pace.14441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND QRS area, a three-dimensional QRS complex, is a novel vectorcardiography method of measuring the magnitude of electrical forces in the heart. Hypothetically, a greater QRS area denotes higher dyssynchrony and indicates potential benefits from cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Previous studies suggest a positive correlation between QRS area and the degree of response to CRT, but its clinical use remains unclear. We performed a meta-analysis of the relationship between QRS area and survival benefit following CRT. METHODS We comprehensively searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases from inception to August 2021. We included studies with prospective and retrospective cohort designs that reported QRS area before CRT and total mortality. Data from each study were analyzed using a random-effects model. The results were reported as a hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS Five observational studies including 4,931 patients were identified. The cut-off values between large and small QRS areas ranged from 102-116 μVs. Our analysis showed a larger QRS area was statistically associated with increased 5-year survival in patients implanted with CRT (HR pooled 0.48, 95% CI 0.46-0.51, I2 = 54%, P < 0.0001). Greater QRS area reduction (pre- and post-implantation) were associated with a lower total mortality rate (HR pooled 0.45, 95% CI 0.38-0.52, I2 = 0%, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Larger pre-implantation QRS area was associated with increased survival after CRT. QRS area reduction following CRT implantation was also associated with lower mortality. QRS area may potentially become an additional selection criterion for CRT implantations. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nithi Tokavanich
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Narut Prasitlumkum
- Division of Cardiology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Wimwipa Mongkonsritragoon
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | | | | | - Ronpichai Chokesuwattanaskul
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.,Department of Medicine, Amita Health St. Francis, Evanston, IL, 60202, USA.,Center of Excellence in Arrhythmia Research Chulalongkorn University, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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14
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Ghossein MA, Zanon F, Salden F, van Stipdonk A, Marcantoni L, Engels E, Luermans J, Westra S, Prinzen F, Vernooy K. Left Ventricular Lead Placement Guided by Reduction in QRS Area. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10245935. [PMID: 34945236 PMCID: PMC8707800 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10245935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Reduction in QRS area after cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is associated with improved long-term clinical outcome. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the reduction in QRS area is associated with hemodynamic improvement by pacing different LV sites and can be used to guide LV lead placement. Methods: Patients with a class Ia/IIa CRT indication were prospectively included from three hospitals. Acute hemodynamic response was assessed as the relative change in maximum rate of rise of left ventricular (LV) pressure (%∆LVdP/dtmax). Change in QRS area (∆QRS area), in QRS duration (∆QRS duration), and %∆LVdP/dtmax were studied in relation to different LV pacing locations within a patient. Results: Data from 52 patients paced at 188 different LV pacing sites were investigated. Lateral LV pacing resulted in a larger %∆LVdP/dtmax than anterior or posterior pacing (p = 0.0007). A similar trend was found for ∆QRS area (p = 0.001) but not for ∆QRS duration (p = 0.23). Pacing from the proximal electrode pair resulted in a larger %∆LVdP/dtmax (p = 0.004), and ∆QRS area (p = 0.003) but not ∆QRS duration (p = 0.77). Within patients, correlation between ∆QRS area and %∆LVdP/dtmax was 0.76 (median, IQR 0.35; 0,89). Conclusion: Within patients, ∆QRS area is associated with %∆LVdP/dtmax at different LV pacing locations. Therefore, QRS area, which is an easily, noninvasively obtainable and objective parameter, may be useful to guide LV lead placement in CRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Ali Ghossein
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesco Zanon
- Santa Maria Della Misericordia General Hospital, 45100 Rovigo, Italy; (F.Z.); (L.M.)
| | - Floor Salden
- Maastricht University Medical Center, Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands; (F.S.); (A.v.S.); (J.L.); (K.V.)
| | - Antonius van Stipdonk
- Maastricht University Medical Center, Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands; (F.S.); (A.v.S.); (J.L.); (K.V.)
| | - Lina Marcantoni
- Santa Maria Della Misericordia General Hospital, 45100 Rovigo, Italy; (F.Z.); (L.M.)
| | - Elien Engels
- Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
| | - Justin Luermans
- Maastricht University Medical Center, Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands; (F.S.); (A.v.S.); (J.L.); (K.V.)
| | - Sjoerd Westra
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Frits Prinzen
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Maastricht University Medical Center, Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands; (F.S.); (A.v.S.); (J.L.); (K.V.)
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
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15
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Wouters PC, van Everdingen WM, Vernooy K, Geelhoed B, Allaart CP, Rienstra M, Maass AH, Vos MA, Prinzen FW, Meine M, Cramer MJ. Does mechanical dyssynchrony in addition to QRS area ensure sustained response to cardiac resynchronization therapy? Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2021; 23:1628-1635. [PMID: 34871385 PMCID: PMC9671288 DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jeab264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Judicious patient selection for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) may further enhance treatment response. Progress has been made by using improved markers of electrical dyssynchrony and mechanical discoordination, using QRSAREA, and systolic rebound stretch of the septum (SRSsept) or systolic stretch index (SSI), respectively. To date, the relation between these measurements has not yet been investigated. Methods and results A total of 240 CRT patients were prospectively enrolled from six centres. Patients underwent standard 12-lead electrocardiography, and echocardiography, at baseline, 6-month, and 12-month follow-up. QRSAREA was derived using vectorcardiography, and SRSsept and SSI were measured using strain-analysis. Reverse remodelling was measured as the relative decrease in left ventricular end-systolic volume, indexed to body surface area (ΔLVESVi). Sustained response was defined as ≥15% decrease in LVESVi, at both 6- and 12-month follow-up. QRSAREA and SRSsept were both strong, multivariable adjusted, variables associated with reverse remodelling. SRSsept was associated with response, but only in patients with QRSAREA ≥ 120 μVs (AUC = 0.727 vs. 0.443). Combined presence of SRSsept ≥ 2.5% and QRSAREA ≥ 120 μVs significantly increased reverse remodelling compared with high QRSAREA alone (ΔLVESVi 38 ± 21% vs. 22 ± 21%). As a result, 92% of left bundle branch block (LBBB)-patients with combined electrical and mechanical dysfunction were ‘sustained’ volumetric responders, as opposed to 51% with high QRSAREA alone. Conclusion Parameters of mechanical dyssynchrony are better associated with response in the presence of a clear underlying electrical substrate. Combined presence of high SRSsept and QRSAREA, but not high QRSAREA alone, ensures a sustained response after CRT in LBBB patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe C Wouters
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter M van Everdingen
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bastiaan Geelhoed
- Department of Cardiology, Thoraxcentre, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis P Allaart
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location VU University Medical Center, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michiel Rienstra
- Department of Cardiology, Thoraxcentre, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander H Maass
- Department of Cardiology, Thoraxcentre, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marc A Vos
- Department of Medical Physiology, University of Utrecht, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Frits W Prinzen
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Masstricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mathias Meine
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten J Cramer
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
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16
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Ghossein MA, van Stipdonk AMW, Plesinger F, Kloosterman M, Wouters PC, Salden OAE, Meine M, Maass AH, Prinzen FW, Vernooy K. Reduction in the QRS area after cardiac resynchronization therapy is associated with survival and echocardiographic response. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2021; 32:813-822. [PMID: 33476467 PMCID: PMC7986123 DOI: 10.1111/jce.14910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent studies have shown that the baseline QRS area is associated with the clinical response after cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In this study, we investigated the association of QRS area reduction (∆QRS area) after CRT with the outcome. We hypothesize that a larger ∆QRS area is associated with a better survival and echocardiographic response. METHODS AND RESULTS Electrocardiograms (ECG) obtained before and 2-12 months after CRT from 1299 patients in a multi-center CRT-registry were analyzed. The QRS area was calculated from vectorcardiograms that were synthesized from 12-lead ECGs. The primary endpoint was a combination of all-cause mortality, heart transplantation, and left ventricular (LV) assist device implantation. The secondary endpoint was the echocardiographic response, defined as LV end-systolic volume reduction ≥ of 15%. Patients with ∆QRS area above the optimal cut-off value (62 µVs) had a lower risk of reaching the primary endpoint (hazard ratio: 0.43; confidence interval [CI] 0.33-0.56, p < .001), and a higher chance of echocardiographic response (odds ratio [OR] 3.3;CI 2.4-4.6, p < .0001). In multivariable analysis, ∆QRS area was independently associated with both endpoints. In patients with baseline QRS area ≥109 µVs, survival, and echocardiographic response were better when the ∆QRS area was ≥62 µVs (p < .0001). Logistic regression showed that in patients with baseline QRS area ≥109 µVs, ∆QRS area was the only significant predictor of survival (OR: 0.981; CI: 0.967-0.994, p = .006). CONCLUSION ∆QRS area is an independent determinant of CRT response, especially in patients with a large baseline QRS area. Failure to achieve a large QRS area reduction with CRT is associated with a poor clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A. Ghossein
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM)Maastricht UniversityMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Antonius M. W. van Stipdonk
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM)Maastricht University Medical Centre+MaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Filip Plesinger
- Department of Medical SignalsInstitute of Scientific Instruments of the Czech Academy of SciencesBrnoCzech Republic
| | - Mariëlle Kloosterman
- Department of Cardiology, University of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Philippe C. Wouters
- Department of CardiologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Odette A. E. Salden
- Department of CardiologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Mathias Meine
- Department of CardiologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Alexander H. Maass
- Department of Cardiology, University of GroningenUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Frits W. Prinzen
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM)Maastricht UniversityMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM)Maastricht University Medical Centre+MaastrichtThe Netherlands
- Department of CardiologyRadboud University Medical CentreNijmegenThe Netherlands
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17
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Comparing Ventricular Synchrony in Left Bundle Branch and Left Ventricular Septal Pacing in Pacemaker Patients. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10040822. [PMID: 33671420 PMCID: PMC7923157 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10040822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) has recently been introduced as a novel physiological pacing strategy. Within LBBAP, distinction is made between left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) and left ventricular septal pacing (LVSP, no left bundle capture). Objective: To investigate acute electrophysiological effects of LBBP and LVSP as compared to intrinsic ventricular conduction. Methods: Fifty patients with normal cardiac function and pacemaker indication for bradycardia underwent LBBAP. Electrocardiography (ECG) characteristics were evaluated during pacing at various depths within the septum: starting at the right ventricular (RV) side of the septum: the last position with QS morphology, the first position with r’ morphology, LVSP and—in patients where left bundle branch (LBB) capture was achieved—LBBP. From the ECG’s QRS duration and QRS morphology in lead V1, the stimulus- left ventricular activation time left ventricular activation time (LVAT) interval were measured. After conversion of the ECG into vectorcardiogram (VCG) (Kors conversion matrix), QRS area and QRS vector in transverse plane (Azimuth) were determined. Results: QRS area significantly decreased from 82 ± 29 µVs during RV septal pacing (RVSP) to 46 ± 12 µVs during LVSP. In the subgroup where LBB capture was achieved (n = 31), QRS area significantly decreased from 46 ± 17 µVs during LVSP to 38 ± 15 µVs during LBBP, while LVAT was not significantly different between LVSP and LBBP. In patients with normal ventricular activation and narrow QRS, QRS area during LBBP was not significantly different from that during intrinsic activation (37 ± 16 vs. 35 ± 19 µVs, respectively). The Azimuth significantly changed from RVSP (−46 ± 33°) to LVSP (19 ± 16°) and LBBP (−22 ± 14°). The Azimuth during both LVSP and LBBP were not significantly different from normal ventricular activation. QRS area and LVAT correlated moderately (Spearman’s R = 0.58). Conclusions: ECG and VCG indices demonstrate that both LVSP and LBBP improve ventricular dyssynchrony considerably as compared to RVSP, to values close to normal ventricular activation. LBBP seems to result in a small, but significant, improvement in ventricular synchrony as compared to LVSP.
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18
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Wouters PC, Vernooy K, Cramer MJ, Prinzen FW, Meine M. Optimizing lead placement for pacing in dyssynchronous heart failure: The patient in the lead. Heart Rhythm 2021; 18:1024-1032. [PMID: 33601035 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2021.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) greatly reduces morbidity and mortality in patients with dyssynchronous heart failure. However, despite tremendous efforts, response has been variable and can be further improved. Although optimizing left ventricular lead placement (LVLP) is arguably the cornerstone of CRT, the procedure of LVLP using the transvenous approach has remained largely unchanged for more than 2 decades. Improvements have been developed using scar location and electrical and/or mechanical mapping, and interest in conduction system pacing as an alternative to biventricular pacing has emerged recently. Conduction system pacing is promising but may not be suitable for all patients with dyssynchronous heart failure. This review underscores the importance of a patient-tailored approach and discusses the potential applications of both conduction system pacing and targeted biventricular CRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe C Wouters
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten J Cramer
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Frits W Prinzen
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, The Netherlands
| | - Mathias Meine
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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