Biventricular pacing optimization by means of the dyssynchrony parameter

To improve Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT), different interventricular delay (VVD) settings can be used. However, relatively small VVD induced hemodynamic changes cannot be measured by standard echocardiographic methods. The QRS complex duration (QRSd) is mostly the main criterion. Here we introduce a new dyssynchrony parameter (DYS) that is able to more accurately detect improved electrical synchrony. Methods: 12-lead 5 kHz ECG during 3-10 minute rest period was measured in 46 patients with CRT OFF and CRT ON with VVD 0 ms (CRT0) and -20 ms (CRT20). We detected QRSd and the dyssynchrony parameter DYS as the time difference between 500-1000 Hz averaged envelopes positions in the V1 and V6 leads in the QRS complex region. Results: 32 of 46 patients had a positive CRT response manifested by QRSd shortening and a DYS decrease. 28 of 32 patients had a positive LV pre-excitation effect: additional QRSd shortening of 4.7+/-.9 ms and a DYS decrease of 12.6+/-7.5 ms. The correlation coefficient of QRSd and DYS changes (CRT 0 vs CRT 20) was 0.23 and indicates information diversity. The DYS parameter differs from QRSd and provides a significantly higher response to VVdelay changes (p <; 0.001)