A meta-analysis suggests that CRT does not benefit patients with QRS intervals shorter than approximately 150 msec.
Current guidelines recommend cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and QRS complex prolongations ≥120 msec. However, small studies with hemodynamic, echocardiographic, or health-status endpoints have raised questions about the benefits of CRT in patients with QRS durations <150 msec. To find out more, investigators conducted a meta-analysis of five randomized, controlled CRT trials that included clinical outcomes and results stratified by QRS duration. Clinical endpoints varied by study, but all incorporated some combination of mortality, hospitalization, and worsening heart failure.
In all but one of the individual trials, CRT was associated with significant reductions in clinical eve…
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresConsultant/Advisory BoardBristol Myers Squibb; CPC Clinical Research
Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; American College of Cardiology Self-Assessment Program (SAP)
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Cardiology (Chair, Innovations Committee)
DisclosuresConsultant/Advisory BoardBristol Myers Squibb; CPC Clinical Research
Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; American College of Cardiology Self-Assessment Program (SAP)
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Cardiology (Chair, Innovations Committee)