Left bundle branch area pacing improves functional tricuspid
regurgitation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation and
bradycardia
Abstract
Background Functional tricuspid regurgitation (FTR) is
correlated with more symptoms and higher mortality. The purpose of this
study was to analyze the effect of left bundle branch area pacing
(LBBAP) on FTR in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) and
bradycardia. Methods Consecutive patients with a pacemaker
indication who underwent successful LBBAP were identified between July
2018 and March 2023. Patients who met the following criteria were
included: 1) persistent AF; 2) mean heart rate (HR) < 60 bpm;
3) moderate or severe FTR. The severity of FTR was graded qualitatively
with a multi-integrative approach, classified into three grades: mild =
1, moderate = 2, and severe = 3. FTR improvement was defined as adding
at least one grade of FTR level. Echocardiographic parameters were
followed up for one week and 6 months. Results There were 29
patients enrolled. 17 (59%) patients were moderate FTR and 12 (41%)
patients were severe FTR at baseline. The paced QRS duration showed no
difference compared to baseline (112.9 ± 13.9 vs 113.8 ± 29.1 ms,
P=0.856). The paced HR was 65.4 ± 6.9 bpm, was significantly higher than
that of baseline (46.7 ± 8.0 bpm) (P <0.001). The VP
percentage at one week was 85.9 ± 20.6%, and remained stable during 6
months follow-up (81.0 ± 19.2%) (P=0.159). One week after LBBAP, 15
(52%) patients had FTR improvement. The mean FTR degree was decreased
from 2.4 ± 0.5 to 1.9 ± 0.7, P<0.001. Six months after LBBAP,
13 (45%) patients remained with FTR improvement. The mean FTR degree
was decreased from 2.4 ± 0.5 to 2.0 ± 0.8, P<0.001.
Conclusion LBBAP was able to improve FTR in persistent AF
patients with bradycardia.