Contrast-enhanced image-guided lead deployment for left bundle branch pacing.

BACKGROUND

Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) is a novel conduction system pacing modality, but pacing lead deployment remains challenging.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of visualization-enhanced lead deployment for LBBP implantation and to assess LBBP characteristics on the basis of lead tip location.

METHODS

Successful LBBP with a well-defined lead tip location by visualization of the tricuspid value annulus in 20 patients was retrospectively analyzed to develop an image-guided technique to identify the LBBP target site. This technique was then prospectively tested in 60 patients who were randomized into 2 groups, one using the standard approach (the standard group) and the other using the image-guided technique (the visualization group). The procedural details, electrophysiological characteristics, and short-term follow-up were compared between groups.

RESULTS

LBBP was successfully achieved in 28 patients in the standard group and in 29 in the visualization group. The procedural and fluoroscopic durations in the visualization group (66.76 ± 14.62 and 7.83 ± 2.05 minutes) were significantly shorter than those in the standard group (85.46 ± 20.19 and 11.11 ± 3.51 minutes) (P < .01). The number of lead deployment attempts in the visualization group was lower than that in the standard group (2.03 ± 1.18 vs 2.96 ± 1.17; P < .01), and the proportion of left bundle branch potential recorded was higher (79.3% vs 46.4%; P = .01).

CONCLUSION

Using a visualization technique, the procedural and fluoroscopic durations for LBBP implantation were significantly shortened with fewer lead repositioning attempts.