Lead aVR is a predictor for mortality in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Normally, lead augmented vector right (aVR) has a negative T wave polarity (TaVR) in the electrocardiography (ECG). Positive TaVR and ST segment deviation in lead aVR (STaVR) have negative effects on mortality in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction patients.

Our aim was to investigate the relationship between lead aVR changes and mortality in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) patients.

We retrospectively examined 249 patients in 2011-2015 years (mean age 70.8±11.9 years and follow-up period 38.3±9.6 months). ECG, echocardiographic, and laboratory findings were recorded and compared in the study. Existence of positive TaVR, STaVR, and quantitative TaVR values were recorded and the absolute numerical values of TaVR and STaVR were recorded from the 12-lead surface ECG (T/STaVR ratio or vice versa).

The patients were divided into two groups: living (171) and deceased (78). Age, systolic blood pressure, left atrial diameter, QRS duration, positive TaVR frequency, STaVR, absolute value of TaVR, and ratio were significantly higher in the deceased group. Age (OR: 1.106), STaVR (OR: 2.349), TaVR (OR: 1.612), and T/STaVR ratio (OR: 5.156) were determined as independent predictors for mortality.

ST segment and T wave polarity changes in lead aVR closely associated with mortality in patients with HFpEF.