QRS dispersion: an electrocardiographic index of systolic left ventricular dysfunction in patients with left bundle

Insights

Complete left bundle branch block (LBBB) can impair left ventricular (LV) systolic function in heart failure patients. QRS dispersion (QRSD) effectively predicts LV systolic dysfunction, serving as a valuable screening tool.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Electrocardiography
  • Cardiac Electrophysiology

Background:

  • Congestive heart failure (CHF) patients with complete left bundle branch block (LBBB) may experience impaired left ventricular (LV) systolic function.
  • The predictive value of QRS duration (QRSd) and QRS dispersion (QRSD) for LV systolic performance in LBBB patients requires further evaluation.

Discussion:

  • This study investigated the relationship between electrocardiographic parameters (QRSd and QRSD) and LV systolic function in 130 patients with complete LBBB.
  • Ejection fraction was assessed using standard echocardiography, alongside measurements of QRSd and QRSD.

Key Insights:

  • QRS dispersion (QRSD) demonstrates a strong correlation with left ventricular (LV) contractility in patients with complete left bundle branch block (LBBB).
  • QRSD emerges as a significant predictor of LV systolic dysfunction.

Outlook:

  • The findings suggest that QRSD can serve as a simple and effective electrocardiographic screening test for identifying patients with LV systolic dysfunction.
  • Further research may explore the integration of QRSD into clinical decision-making for heart failure management in LBBB patients.

Related Concept Videos

Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias01:18

Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias

Bradyarrhythmias are cardiac rhythm disorders characterized by a slower-than-normal heart rate, typically defined as fewer than 60 beats per minute. Some of which are discussed here:Sinus BradycardiaSinus bradycardia presents a heart rate lower than 60 beats per minute, with a regular rhythm originating from the SA node. The ECG typically shows normal P waves preceding each QRS complex, a normal PR interval (0.12 to 0.20 seconds), and a normal QRS duration (0.06 to 0.10 seconds).First-Degree AV...
Electrocardiogram01:29

Electrocardiogram

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a critical diagnostic tool that records the electrical signals produced by the heart during each heartbeat. This recording is achieved through electrodes placed strategically on the arms, legs, and chest. The electrocardiograph amplifies these signals and produces 12 distinct tracings, offering a comprehensive understanding of the heart's electrical activity.
Three major waveforms are present in a typical ECG recording: the P wave, the QRS complex, and the T...
Electrocardiogram Fundamentals01:28

Electrocardiogram Fundamentals

Introduction
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a diagnostic tool for identifying cardiac conditions such as arrhythmias, conduction abnormalities, and myocardial ischemia.
Definition
An electrocardiogram (ECG) visualizes the heart's electrical activity by tracing the electrical movement associated with each heartbeat on a graph or monitor. As the heart beats, an electrical wave passes through it, correlating with the cardiac cycle events.
Parts of an ECG
An ECG utilizes electrodes on the skin to...
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies01:30

Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies

Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
ECG Interpretation of Rhythms01:24

ECG Interpretation of Rhythms

An electrocardiogram (ECG)graphically represents the heart's electrical activity on ECG paper or a monitor.
Components of the Electrocardiogram
The primary components of a normal ECG waveform in Normal sinus rhythm(NSR) include the P wave, PR interval, QRS complex, ST segment, T wave, and occasionally a U wave.
ECG waveforms are divided by vertical and horizontal lines at standard intervals.
The horizontal axis measures time and rate, and the vertical axis measures amplitude or voltage. When...
Disturbances in Heart Rhythm01:29

Disturbances in Heart Rhythm

Arrhythmia or dysrhythmia refers to an abnormal heart rhythm caused by a defect in the heart's conduction system. It can cause the heart to beat irregularly, too quickly, or too slowly, leading to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting. Factors such as stress, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, certain drugs, congenital defects, diseases, and electrolyte abnormalities can trigger arrhythmias.
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...