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Predictors of rapid QRS widening in patients with coronary artery disease and left ventricular dysfunction

Patrizio Lancellotti1, Henri E Kulbertus, Luc A Piérard

  • 1Division of Cardiology, University Hospital of Liège, Sart Tilman, B-4000 Liège, Belgium.

The American Journal of Cardiology
|May 29, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Predictors of rapid QRS widening in chronic ischemic left ventricular dysfunction were identified. Left ventricular end-diastolic volume, increased mitral regurgitant volume during exercise, and diabetes independently predicted QRS widening.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Clinical Medicine
  • Diagnostic Electrocardiography

Background:

  • Chronic ischemic left ventricular dysfunction poses significant clinical challenges.
  • QRS widening on electrocardiography can indicate underlying cardiac pathology.
  • Identifying predictors of rapid QRS widening is crucial for risk stratification.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the independent predictors of rapid QRS widening in patients with chronic ischemic left ventricular dysfunction.
  • To investigate the relationship between cardiac structural and functional parameters and QRS widening.
  • To explore the role of exercise-induced changes and comorbidities in QRS widening.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 82 patients with chronic ischemic left ventricular dysfunction.
  • Inclusion criteria: at least two electrocardiograms and exercise Doppler echocardiography.
  • Multivariate analysis to identify independent predictors of QRS widening.

Main Results:

  • Left ventricular end-diastolic volume was a significant predictor of QRS widening.
  • A substantial increase in mitral regurgitant volume during exercise independently predicted QRS widening.
  • Diabetes mellitus was identified as an independent predictor of rapid QRS widening.

Conclusions:

  • Left ventricular end-diastolic volume, exercise-induced mitral regurgitation, and diabetes are key predictors of rapid QRS widening.
  • These findings aid in identifying high-risk patients with chronic ischemic left ventricular dysfunction.
  • Further research can explore therapeutic strategies targeting these predictors.

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