Left stellate stimulation increases left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with essential palmar...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Autonomic Nervous System Research
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Stellate ganglion stimulation influences cardiac function in animal models.
• The effects of left versus right stellate ganglion stimulation in humans remain less understood.
• Previous research indicates potential roles in cardiac contractility and rhythm.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of left and right stellate ganglion stimulation on cardiac function in humans.
• To determine if left stellate stimulation has a predominant effect on cardiovascular parameters.
• To assess changes in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), QT interval, heart rate, and systolic blood pressure.

Main Methods:

• Stimulation of the left and right stellate ganglia using a monopolar coagulation current (5 W) in separate groups of patients.
• Measurement of LVEF via M-mode echocardiography, QT interval, heart rate, and systolic blood pressure before and after stimulation.
• Statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon Matched-Pairs Signed-Ranks Test.

Main Results:

• Left stellate stimulation significantly increased LVEF (P=0.005) and prolonged the QT interval (P=0.005).
• Marginal, non-significant increases were observed in heart rate (P=0.052) and systolic blood pressure (P=0.050) after left stellate stimulation.
• Right stellate stimulation showed no significant changes in any measured cardiovascular parameters (all P>0.20).

Conclusions:

• The left stellate ganglia play a predominant role in modulating human cardiovascular function compared to the right.
• Left stellate stimulation offers a potential therapeutic avenue for enhancing cardiac contractility and managing certain arrhythmias.
• Further research is warranted to explore the clinical applications of targeted stellate ganglion modulation.