Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Benefits of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in an Asynchronous Heart Failure Model Induced by Left Bundle Branch Ablation and Rapid Pacing
Published on: December 11, 2017
Unmasking Type 1 Brugada Pattern During Ajmaline Challenge Despite Left Bundle Branch Pacing
Paolo Pastori1, Cristina Balla2, Francesco Vitali2
1Cardiology Unit, Fidenza Hospital, Azienda USL of Parma, Fidenza, Italy.
This study shows Brugada pattern is detectable even with left bundle branch pacing. Conduction system pacing does not obscure these crucial repolarization abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Brugada pattern is an electrocardiographic finding associated with increased risk of sudden cardiac death.
- Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) is an alternative pacing method for heart block.
- Altered ventricular activation during pacing can affect electrocardiogram interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the detectability of Brugada pattern during LBBP.
- To assess the impact of conduction system pacing on Brugada repolarization abnormalities.
Main Methods:
- A patient with syncope, right bundle branch block, and infra-Hisian atrioventricular block underwent LBBP.
- An ajmaline challenge was performed post-device implantation with high-precordial lead positioning.
- Electrocardiograms were analyzed during intrinsic rhythm and LBBP.
Main Results:
- A diagnostic type 1 Brugada pattern was unmasked by ajmaline challenge.
- The Brugada pattern was evident during both intrinsic beats and LBBP-paced beats.
- High-precordial lead positioning facilitated Brugada pattern recognition.
Conclusions:
- Diagnostic Brugada repolarization abnormalities can be recognized despite altered ventricular activation from LBBP.
- Conduction system pacing does not necessarily mask Brugada syndrome.
- Careful ECG interpretation and provocative testing remain vital in patients with suspected Brugada syndrome undergoing pacing.
Related Concept Videos
Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias
Mechanism of Cardiac Arrhythmias
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Electrophysiology of Normal Cardiac Rhythm
Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy

