Myocardial bridge and beta blockers: effect on left ventricular strain parameters

To assess the effect of beta-blocker treatment on left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV Gls) as measured by echocardiography in patients with MB (Myocardial Bridge).

Between January 2019 and February 2022, a prospective, single-center study was undertaken in which myocardial bridging was identified in individuals who had coronary angiography. One hundred patients with myocardial bridging were systematically recruited and strain echocardiography was performed. Patient data were analysed in two groups - those who weren't using beta-blockers in the last six months (Group I: n = 50) vs. those who were (Group II: n = 50).

One hundred patients participated in the study (38 females, 62 males; average age: 57.4 years). There was a statistically significant difference in the mean heart rate between groups I and II (p < 0.001). LV Gls was found to be statistically significantly improved in favour of group II when compared to group I [Group I: (-12.57)±3 vs. Group II: (-15.92)±2.9, p < 0.001].

The negative chronotropic effect of beta-blocker medication in individuals with MB identified by coronary angiography has a beneficial effect on LV Gls as measured by echocardiography.