Right bundle branch block as a marker for interatrial septal abnormalities

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Interatrial septal anomalies (atrial septal defect, patent foramen ovale, atrial septal aneurysm) are common in adults.
• Early detection is crucial to prevent hemodynamic consequences and thromboembolic events.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) findings can suggest interatrial abnormalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between ECG signs of right bundle branch block (RBBB) and interatrial septal anomalies.
• To analyze interatrial septum using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in patients with and without RBBB.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study including 87 adult patients.
• Group 1: 41 patients with ECG signs of RBBB.
• Group 2: 46 patients without RBBB. TEE was used for analysis.

Main Results:

• Interatrial septal anomalies were found in 80.5% of patients with RBBB versus 6.5% without (p < 0.001).
• Patent foramen ovale was significantly more prevalent in the RBBB group (39.02% vs 4.3%, p < 0.001).
• Atrial septal aneurysm (21.9% vs 2.2%, p = 0.01) and atrial septal defect (19.5% vs 0%, p = 0.004) were also more frequent in the RBBB group.

Conclusions:

• ECG signs of RBBB are a valuable indicator for interatrial septal abnormalities.
• A detailed search for these anomalies is warranted in patients presenting with RBBB.
• This association aids in early diagnosis and management of potential cardiac complications.