Biventricular pacing in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy: a pilot study

Antonio Berruezo1, Radu Vatasescu, Lluis Mont

  • 1Cardiology Department, Thorax Institute, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain. berruezo@clinic.ub.es

Heart Rhythm
|October 19, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Biventricular pacing is a feasible and effective treatment for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM), significantly reducing left ventricular (LV) obstruction and improving patient quality of life. This approach also leads to a reduction in LV mass over time.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Electrophysiology
  • Heart Failure Management

Background:

  • Conflicting results exist regarding right ventricular apex pacing for gradient reduction in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM).
  • Severe left ventricular (LV) obstruction in HOCM necessitates effective treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of biventricular pacing in patients with HOCM.
  • To evaluate the impact of biventricular pacing on LV obstruction and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Transvenous biventricular pacing was attempted in 12 severely symptomatic HOCM patients.
  • Echocardiography was used to assess LV pressure gradient and synchrony.
  • Optimal pacing intervals were programmed post-implantation.

Main Results:

  • Biventricular pacing was successfully implanted in 9 patients, with biventricular pacing being the optimal mode in 6.
  • Significant improvements were observed in functional capacity (NYHA class, 6-minute walk test) and quality of life.
  • Progressive reduction in LV gradient and LV mass was noted, alongside changes in LV septal and lateral wall displacement.

Conclusions:

  • Biventricular pacing is a feasible and often optimal configuration for reducing gradients in HOCM.
  • Biventricular pacing effectively reduces LV hypertrophy and improves clinical outcomes in HOCM patients.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy01:29

Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...
Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy01:29

Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy

Restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) is a rare heart muscle disease characterized by impaired ventricular filling due to stiffened ventricular walls, leading to significant diastolic dysfunction.EtiologyRestrictive cardiomyopathy can arise from both inherited and acquired diseases, many of which are systemic. It is categorized into four main types: infiltrative, storage, non-infiltrative, and endomyocardial diseases.Infiltrative diseases, such as amyloidosis, lead to RCM by depositing amyloid...
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care01:29

Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care

Managing cardiomyopathy involves addressing underlying or precipitating causes, treating heart failure with medications, and implementing dietary changes and a balanced exercise and rest regimen.Lifestyle ModificationsCardiomyopathy patients should adopt a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention and manage heart failure. A personalized exercise and rest plan helps maintain physical fitness without overstraining the heart. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco is essential to prevent further damage to...
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy01:30

Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management01:25

Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is characterized by retrograde blood circulation from the left ventricle into the left atrium due to inadequate mitral valve closure. The severity of the condition, symptoms, and underlying cause determine treatment strategies.Monitoring and Pharmacological TreatmentPatients with mild to moderate MR typically do not need immediate intervention but regular monitoring to assess progression and guide treatment. Patients with mild MR should have an echocardiogram every 3-5...
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management01:26

Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management

Mitral stenosis, a condition marked by the narrowing of the mitral valve, necessitates an integrated approach for effective management. This approach includes preventative measures, medical therapy, and surgical interventions to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.PreventionPrevention of mitral stenosis primarily focuses on reducing the incidence of bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal infections, which can lead to rheumatic fever and subsequent valvular damage. Timely...