Skip to main content

REVIEW article

Front. Cardiovasc. Med., 15 August 2023
Sec. Cardiac Rhythmology
This article is part of the Research Topic Response to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy View all 6 articles

Conduction system pacing on track to replace CRT? Review of current evidence and prospects of conduction system pacing

  • Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada

Conduction system pacing (CSP) has been emerging over the last decade as a pacing option instead of conventional right ventricular (RV) pacing and biventricular (BiV) pacing. Numerous case reports, some observational studies and a few randomized control trials have looked at optimum pacing strategies for heart failure (HF) with left bundle branch block (LBBB) or cases where left ventricular (LV) dysfunction is anticipated due to chronic RV pacing (RVP). Evolution of pacing strategies from standard RVP to septal RVP, BiV pacing and now CSP have shown improving hemodynamic responses and possible ease of implantation of CSP systems. In this review article, we review the literature on the evolution of CSP and common scenarios where it might be beneficial.

Atrioventricular conduction system—anatomy and physiological properties

The cardiac conduction system comprises specialized cells with properties of automaticity and conduction. The sinoatrial (SA) node and the atrioventricular (AV) node can function as pacemakers with the ability of automaticity. The Bundle of His, approximately 18 mm long in an adult heart, traverses the right fibrous trigone commonly dividing into two specialized bundle branches (right and left bundle branch, RBB and LBB). These are encapsulated by a fibrous sheath that separates the specialized myocytes from the myocardium thus allowing rapid electrical conduction. At the distal branches of these bundles, there is absence of this fibrous sheath, allowing communication with the local ventricular myocardium resulting in myocardial contraction (Figure 1) (1). The LBB fibers are widely distributed and progressively broaden to create a subendocardial network, before dividing further into the fascicles of the LBB. This broad network further explains the feasibility of left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP), unlike His bundles, where the target area for effective pacing is very narrow. Conduction abnormalities can occur in any segment of the conduction system from the SA node, AV node or the His-Purkinje system (Figure 2).

FIGURE 1
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 1. Normal cardiac conduction system.

FIGURE 2
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 2. Cardiac conduction system abnormalities.

Conduction tissue disease with bundle branch block

LBBB cause interventricular dyssynchrony with RV systole earlier than LV systole. It also contributes to intraventricular dyssynchrony, which is a result of myocyte-to-myocyte propagation of signal from RV to LV through the septum, with the earliest breakthrough of signals being the LV septum and the latest being the inferior-basal LV wall. This mechanical disparity results in a pre-systolic stretch of the late activated areas, which by way of Frank-Starling law results in an enhanced systolic, albeit late, contraction. As a result, systolic stress, strain, and myocardial oxygen consumption is increased in late activated regions and reduced in early activated regions, with subsequent loss of pumping efficiency (24).

Disruption of the conduction system can have varying detrimental effects. Early landmark data, such as the Framingham study, showed that new LBBB was associated with underlying coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathies, infiltrative diseases and heart failure (5). Incidental finding of LBBB in the presence of scar, as shown on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, has worse outcomes than those who have no scar (6). Bundle branch block (BBB) is deleterious on long-term cardiovascular outcomes and has higher mortality in those individuals with myocardial infarction or abrupt BBB following a percutaneous procedure such as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) (7). Meta-analysis of studies shows any form of BBB to have a higher association with mortality in patients presenting with acute heart failure (8). In patients with LBBB, there is an increasing evidence of LV diastolic impairment despite having a preserved LV systolic function resulting in elevated filling pressure and a rise in serum NT-proBNP levels (9).

Landmark clinical trials had shown that resynchronization with Biventricular Pacing—Cardiac Resynchronization therapy (BiV-CRT) improved quality of life, reduced LV remodeling, and reduced cardiovascular outcomes such as hospitalization and mortality in patients with impaired LV function in the setting of LBBB (1012). Correction of RBBB with CRT in the setting of heart failure has not been shown to be as successful as shown in meta-analysis and is thought to be due to underlying comorbidities such as pulmonary hypertension (13).

There is minimal evidence supported by case reports to suggest that correcting the LBBB in preserved LV function has any long-term benefit (14). More studies are required to compare the effects of pacing different regions of the conduction system evaluating an improvement or maintaining LV function in these subsets of patients over long periods (15).

Correction of conduction tissue disease

Patients with symptomatic SA node disease and AV block will require pacemakers. The pacemakers can be RV-only, dual-chamber pacemakers, CRT, endocardial LV lead, HIS Bundle pacing (HBP) or LBBAP (Figure 3). Advancing technologies in this field have led to an increasing amount of literature being published particularly in the field of CRT, HBP and LBBAP (Figure 4).

FIGURE 3
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 3. Illustration of pacing techniques. (1) Atrial pacing. (2) Right ventricular (RV) pacing. (3) His bundle pacing (HBP). (4) Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP). (5) Biventricular pacing (BVP) with an epimyocardial left ventricular lead via the coronary sinus (CS).

FIGURE 4
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 4. Number of publications over the last 20 years based on three main pacing techniques of HBP (HIS bundle pacing), LBBAP (left bundle branch area pacing) and CRT (cardiac resynchronization therapy).

Pacing-induced cardiomyopathy and the need for resynchronization therapy

Right ventricular pacing (RVP) has saved the lives of a substantial number of people, especially those with sick sinus syndrome (SSS) and AV block such as complete heart block (CHB). However, chronic RVP has resulted in LV dysfunction in some patients.

The placement of the leads at the RV has deleterious effects on the normal functioning of the heart with the weakening of heart muscle, heart failure and risk of arrhythmia. Pacing-induced cardiomyopathy (PICM) from chronic high burden RVP has varied in definitions across studies, with several different thresholds for drop in LVEF identified. Most widely used definition is drop in LVEF to less than 40%–50%, with an absolute drop in LVEF of at least 5%–10%, with 10%–20% of patients with normal LVEF speculated to develop PICM from chronic high burden RVP (1619). Permanent RVP results in interventricular dyssynchrony, due to a change in the normal activation of the LV. This effect is more prominent in patients with dilated LV and lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (16, 18, 20). The altered pattern of ventricular activation, is responsible for intraventricular dyssynchrony, in a similar fashion as LBBB with earliest activation being the ventricular septum, and the latest being the inferior, basal wall of the LV. This contributes to impaired mechanical contraction and eventually PICM (21).

Conduction system pacing with His bundle pacing and left bundle branch area pacing to normalize bundle branch block

Conduction system pacing (CSP) requires engaging the conduction system at either the level of the His bundle (HBP) or the left bundle branch (LBBAP) resulting in myocardial capture that is considered physiological. Physiological pacing through CSP has been evolving to avoid the unfavourable effects of RV pacing resulting in ventricular dyssynchrony (2224).

HBP is considered the most physiological as it captures the proximal origin of the ventricular conduction system beyond the AV node, and proximal BBB can be corrected at its level due to the longitudinal dissociation theory (25, 26). This theory suggested that fibers from His bundle are predestined to fibers composing individual bundle branches. Therefore, HBP at levels of proximal blocks can allow for correction of BBB and result in cardiac resynchronization (25, 26). HBP can be selective (S-HBP) without simultaneous local myocardial capture or non-selective (NS-HBP) where a small portion of cardiac myocardium is simultaneously activated (Figure 5). The overall myocardial performance is comparable between S-HBP and NS-HBP, with early studies showing no clinical difference in outcomes from heart failure, hospitalization, or death, as well as activation pattern on echocardiography (27, 28). However, there is greater longevity of pacemakers with S-HBP due to higher excitability of HBP compared to myocardial excitability termed chronaxie, with His bundle exhibiting shorter chronaxie requiring a shorter pacing pulse width, further optimizing battery performance (29, 30). HBP preserves LVEF by ensuring electrical activation of distal Purkinje system and maintaining mechanical synchrony when compared to right ventricular septal pacing (RVSP) during mid-term follow-up in patients with AVB, narrow QRS, and LVEF >40% (31). HBP has also been shown to have a lower risk of inducing AF than conventional RVP (32). The 2018 AHA/ACC/HRS guidelines recommend physiological ventricular activation (CRT or HBP) in patients with AV block (class IIa indication), and HBP in patients with AV block at the level of the AV node (Class IIb indication), with mid-range LVEF (36%–50%) who require permanent pacing and expected to require pacing more than 40% of the time (33).

FIGURE 5
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 5. His bundle pacing with underlying block at the level of the atrioventricular (AV) node. (A) Non-Selective His bundle pacing with capture of both His bundle and the surrounding septal myocardium, resulting in a paced beat with a fusion pattern. (B) Selective His bundle pacing with capture of His bundle only, with a narrow complex paced beat.

Despite HBP being the optimal pacing site for a physiological response, it has its limitations. The technique of HBP requires precision skills in targeting a small zone and is found to be challenging in patients with distorted anatomy due to dilated hearts, resulting in high fluoroscopic radiation exposure and a long duration of procedures. Oversensing the atrial and undersensing the ventricular signals is a frequent concern due to the anatomical location of HBP. The success rate of achieving HBP with predefined parameters varies between 76% and 96% depending on the operator's experience and the level of conduction system disease (34). There is also variability in the location of true His signals, necessitating different HBP lead tip trajectory (more atrial vs. ventricular), as shown in the IMAGE-HBP study, by identifying the HB anatomic landmarks on the basis of CT imaging and lead tip location (35). Despite the successful deployment of HBP, the pacing threshold is higher than conventional RVP and can result in premature battery depletion, loss of capture, early lead revisions, and associated risks from repeated generator replacements. Mean number of years for HBP generators to reach End Of Life (EOL) necessitating a generator replacement is 5.9 ± 2.1 (36). When compared to standard RVP, the need for lead revisions (6.7% vs. 3%) and for generator change (9% vs. 1%) were higher in the HBP group at 5 years (37). Out of 844 patients with HBP, 199 (23.5%) patient's thresholds increased more than 1.0 V in respect to implant value, leading to HBP interruption in 51 patients, and necessitating reintervention (lead revision or replacement) in 31 patients (36). Moreover, in cases of LBBB when the level of conduction block is more distal, HBP cannot correct the LBBB.

LBBAP technique was first described by Huang et al. in 2017 by capturing the LBB area deep into the RV septum in a patient with heart failure and LBBB (2). LBBAP has emerged as a suitable alternative to HBP due to lower pacing thresholds, higher sensing amplitudes, and more stable lead positions alongside providing physiological pacing (38, 39). Depending on the area captured with pacing, LBBAP could either be LBB pacing (LBBP) with both selective and non-selective LBB pacing, as well as LV myocardial-only septal pacing (LVSP), each defined with their unique diagnostic criteria (38, 39). LBBP can be achieved by engaging the conduction system of the LBB along its left-sided septal course by deploying the lead deep into the RV septum to reach the LBB (2). LBBP results in more selective pacing of LBB and restores a synchronized LV electrical activation more readily due to a broader area to implant the pacing lead. At a higher pacing output, LBBP usually results in non-selective LBBP, capturing both the LBB and the surrounding myocardium. Whereas at a lower pacing output, only the LBB is captured if the pacing lead tip is appropriately positioned to capture the LBB, resulting in selective LBBP (Figure 6). LVSP share the same approach, implanting the lead into the left ventricular septum via a transseptal approach, albeit shallower for LVSP (42). LVSP entails capture of LV septal myocardium in contrast to the direct LBB conduction system capture with LBBP, is a common procedural outcome during LBBP due to the inability to accurately distinguish them sometimes, or due to the implanters experience (43). Despite the subtle differences in LV activation, QRS morphology and duration, long term outcomes of LVSP vs. LBBP are unknown and may differ. A subgroup analysis of LOT-CRT study showed better echocardiographic, electrocardiographic, and clinical outcomes in LBBP compared to LVSP (44). LBBP continues to be a more favorable outcome over LVSP in heart failure patients to achieve pacing closest to physiological activation.

FIGURE 6
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 6. Baseline left bundle branch block (LBBB) and respective QRS morphology and duration with pacing different parts of the conduction system. (A) Pacing above the level of block at the His Bundle with the paced beat resembling LBBB. (B) Non-Selective left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) with capture of both left bundle branch (LBB) and surrounding myocardium resulting in a paced beat with fusion pattern and atypical RBBB pattern with qR in V1. (C) Selective LBBP with capture of LBB only, resulting in a typical wider RBBB pattern with rSR′ in V1. LAF, left anterior fascicle; LPF, left posterior fascicle.

LBBAP has shown to be safe and effective in LBBB patients with LV impairment to maintain or improve cardiac function compared to RV pacing and BiV-CRT pacing, while taking a shorter time and less radiation exposure to the patient than HBP (45). Early small retrospective and prospective studies showed promising results with the evolution of LBBAP to correct LBBB and improve heart failure through a reduction in QRS duration (QRSd) resulting in quicker LV activation time, with a low, stable pacing capture threshold (46, 47).

LBBAP represents a natural evolution of conduction system pacing to overcome the challenges posed by the current limitations of HBP (48). There are some safety concerns however associated with LBB pacing which include LV perforation, acute lead dislodgement, and RBB injury necessitating a temporary pacing lead for backup in some patients with LBBB (4952). Coronary artery injury, specifically septal branches of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) is a risk of LBBAP (53). One other limitation of LBBAP is the inability of the lead to penetrate deep into the septum due to underlying fibrosis in some patients with ischemic or non-ischemic cardiomyopathies (54). The long-term safety profile, lead performance, and risks associated with the extraction of the deep septal lead needs to be determined (55). The efficacy of LBBAP for cardiac resynchronization requires investigation in prospective randomized clinical trials.

For instances where adequate narrowing of the QRS cannot be achieved by HBP due to distal conduction tissue disease, His optimized CRT (HOT-CRT) was considered an alternative for narrowing QRS by fusion of HBP and LV pacing via the coronary sinus (56). Similarly, LBBAP-optimized CRT (LOT-CRT) allows for fusion between LBBAP and LV pacing through the coronary sinus (57). Both HOT-CRT and LOT-CRT techniques have shown significant improvements in QRSd, LVEF, and reduction in NT-proBNP and HF symptoms (44, 58).

Current recommendations for CSP (HBP or LBBAP) from the 2023 HRS/APHR/LAHRS guidelines include patients with indications for pacemaker therapy with anticipated ventricular pacing ≥40% and an LVEF of 36%–50% (class IIa) or LVEF >50% (class IIb). CSP maybe considered if less than 40% pacing is anticipated, with LVEF of 36%–50%, with or without a LBBB (class IIb), whereas only LBBAP maybe considered if LVEF is >50% (class IIb). CSP maybe also considered in HF patients with LBBB, LVEF 36%–50%, QRSd ≥150 ms and NYHA class II-IV (class IIb), or if effective CRT cannot be achieved with BiV pacing and LVEF ≤35% (class IIa). In patients with non-LBBB, LVEF ≤35%, QRSd 120–149 and NYHA class III–IV, CSP could be considered (class IIb) (59).

Biventricular pacing resynchronization of ventricles and limitations

BiV pacing (BVP) was developed in the early 2000s by pacing both ventricles resulting in fusion and correcting BBB in the management of heart failure (60). Conventional BiV-CRT is achieved by placing a lead in an epicardial coronary vein. Evidence for BiV-CRT stems from the MIRCLE trial, the first trial showing improved exercise tolerance, heart failure symptoms and quality of life (61). Subsequent trials (CARE-HF, COMPANION, REVERSE, MADIT-CRT and RAFT) showed similar promising outcomes (10, 6265). Currently, BVP is an established guideline treatment termed cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) for patients with heart failure (LVEF <35%), LBBB and on optimal recommended heart failure drugs (6668).

BiV-CRT has been shown to reverse LV dysfunction by narrowing QRS, and improving hemodynamic response, even in patients with chronic RVP and mild heart failure (6971). Several pathways have been identified by which BiV-CRT improves cardiac function and heart failure symptoms. Most importantly is correction of LBBB, improving both inter- and intraventricular dyssynchrony, eliminating the disparities in the timing of shortening of earlier activated regions with reciprocal stretch of late activated regions (72). Derivate of pressure over time maximum (dP/dTmax) of the LV, is one of the oldest measures of LV global contractility and is a good index of ventricular performance. Shortening of an inappropriately long AV delay by CRT results in an earlier pressure development in the LV due to pre-excited pacing, increasing the pulse pressure and LV dP/dTmax (7375).

BiV-CRT has its challenges and complications. Besides the problems associated with conventional pacing, there are several others, like the problems associated with the LV lead insertion due to coronary sinus anatomy and perforation, phrenic nerve stimulation, and displacement of leads, along with longer procedure times with subsequently increased risk of infections (76, 77).

Despite the success, 30%–45% are considered non-responders to CRT and do not benefit, albeit there is a lack of a universally accepted definition for non-responders (78). Patients with a history of Atrial fibrillation (AF) may not have good outcomes with the BiV-CRT alone and will require >98% BVP achieved by medications or by catheter ablation of the AV node (79, 80). Another predictor identified that is associated with poor response to CRT is a QRS morphology with typical LBBB being more responsive to CRT compared to atypical LBBB or RBBB (70). The location of the epicardial LV lead also plays an important role explained by pacing not being at the most delayed region or presence of scar at the LV pacing site (81, 82). With apical epicardial placement resulting in worse clinical outcomes compared to placement at the basal to mid-myocardial segments of the lateral wall in addition to variable activation wavefront vectors and velocities resulting in altered fusion (83). The advantages of multisite pacing in the LV has also not improved response rates and are likely due to large areas of fibrosis and not the anatomical site of pacing (84, 85).

A “CRT team” using CMR and longitudinal myocardial strain to identify a target area for optimal epicardial LV lead placement prior to implantation, defined as the most delayed and still viable region, showed a high response rate with only 7% non-responders and no negative responders (86). In areas of progressive scar, phrenic nerve capture, and higher rates of coronary sinus lead dislodgements, quadripolar leads have shown advantageous to bipolar leads in preserving CRT response and avoiding premature battery depletion (8789).

LV endocardial pacing was designed to offer another alternative option for LV resynchronization with a greater choice of the site of LV pacing without the restriction of implanting in coronary venous tributaries. Approaches for LV endocardial pacing include atrial transseptal route and across the mitral valve, via the interventricular septum, via a transapical route, and lastly wireless LV endocardial pacing. The main limitation to LV endocardial pacing is placement of the lead in the systemic circulation with increased risk of thromboembolism and the requirement for long-term anticoagulation (90). In addition, the LV endocardial pacing approach via the intra-atrial septum passing through the mitral valve has its challenges, such as impeding mitral valve closure and increasing the risk of degeneration and infective endocarditis (91). The transapical implantation method of endocardial LV pacing is beneficial as it avoids the mitral valve and transseptal route. However, it has only been described in case reports and small series (92, 93). Due to its limitations, LV endocardial pacing has not been sought after as an alternative to conventional BVP.

His bundle pacing compared with biventricular pacing

CSP in the form of HBP is used in patients with heart failure with reduced LVEF (HFrEF) and broad QRS and has shown to have promising results as supported by a recent meta-analysis (94). There have been few case reports, observational and randomized control trials comparing HBP to CRT, showing a reduction in QRSd, LV volumes and improvement in LVEF (94, 95). HBP, compared to BiV pacing, was superior in symptomatic AF patients undergoing AV node ablation, with moderately reduced LVEF (≥35% and <50%) and a narrow QRS (≤120 ms), with a statistically significant reduction in indexed LV volumes and an increase in LVEF (96). Similarly, the ALTERNATIVE-AF trial demonstrated modest improvement in LVEF with HBP compared to BiV pacing in patients with symptomatic persistent AF, reduced LVEF (≤40) and a narrow QRS (≤120 ms) (97). However, further adequately powered trials are necessary to determine whether these improvements in LV function can translate to improvements in clinical endpoints.

Left bundle branch area pacing compared with biventricular pacing

CSP in the form of LBBAP has evolved after the era of HBP mostly due to the latter's limitation with successful His engagement, increasing capture threshold during follow-up, proximity to atrium resulting in oversensing and low sensing amplitude at the His bundle location. In contrast, LBBAP regions typically have higher sensing, lower capture thresholds and similar paced QRS durations. Compared to BiV pacing, LBBAP showed improved symptoms, LVEF and reduction in QRS and LV volumes (55, 94, 98, 99). The randomized trial LBBP-RESYNC, demonstrated a greater improvement of LVEF, reduction in indexed LV systolic volume with LBBAP compared to BiV pacing in patient with symptomatic HF, LBBB and an LVEF ≤40, with comparable improvement in functional status with both pacing modalities (100). A metanalysis of only four available non-randomized controlled trials of LBBAP vs. BiV-CRT showed a significantly shortened QRSd (MD: −29.18 ms, 95% CI: −33.55 to 24.8, P < 0.001), improved LVEF (MD: 6.93%, 95% CI: 4.69 to 9.17, P < 0.001), reduced LV end-diastolic dimension (MD: −2.96 mm, 95% CI: −5.48 to −0.44, P = 0.02), improved NYHA class (MD: −0.54, 95% CI: −0.84 to −0.24, P < 0.001), and higher echocardiographic and clinical response rate (48). Two non-randomized trials comparing LBBAP and BiV pacing, one with 371 patients, and an international multicentre trial with 1,778 patients, showed a significant reduction in the primary outcome, which was a composite outcome of both HF hospitalization and all-cause mortality, driven by a greater reduction in HF hospitalizations without a significant difference in all-cause mortality or long-term complications in the LBBAP group, with greater LVEF improvement, improved functional status, and a significant reduction in procedural and fluoroscopy times (101, 102). In a non-randomized trial, with 12 months follow-up, patients with LBBB, LVEF ≤35% and heart failure had better electromechanical resynchronization with LBBP compared to optimized BiV pacing with adaptive algorithm (BVP-aCRT), with a significant reduction in QRSd (126.54 ± 11.67 vs. 102.61 ± 9.66 ms, P < 0.001). Furthermore, LBBP demonstrated higher clinical and echocardiographic response, especially higher super-response (≥20% absolute increase or LVEF ≥50%) compared to BVP-aCRT (103). LBBAP is a promising alternative over BiV-CRT, however, high quality randomized controlled trials with longer terms are essential for validation.

Future considerations

The rapid acceptance and evolution of CSP along with its safety has led to rapid growth of research in multiple facets being explored. Current randomized recruiting studies on CSP listed on clinicaltrials.gov include CONSYST-CRT (NCT05187611) compares CSP to BiV-CRT in 130 patients with indications for CRT, and Left vs. Left (NCT05650658) comparing both pacing strategies in 2,136 patients with LVEF <50%, RAFT-Preserved (NCT04582578) compares CSP to BiV-CRT in HF with preserved ejection fraction, RAFT P&A (NCT05428787) compares LBBAP to BiV-CRT in patients with AF underdoing a pace and ablate strategy, CSP-SYNC (NCT05155865), HOT-CRT (NCT04561778), PHYSPAVB (NCT05214365) compares CSP versus conventional RV pacing, LEAP (NCT04595487) compares CSP to RV pacing, LEAP-Block (NCT04730921) compares LBBAP to RV pacing in patients with AV block, HIS-PrEF (NCT04529577) compares RV pacing to HBP in HFrEF, HIS-alt_2 (NCT04409119) compares CSP to BiV-CRT in HFrEF with LBBB, LBBAP-AFHF (NCT05549544) compares LBBAP with BiV pacing in patients requiring an AV node ablation in LVEF <50%, LEFT-BUNDLE-CRT (NCT05434962) compares LBBAP to BiV-CRT in HFrEF. Some of these studies are reviewing the clinical effectiveness of CSP to current conventional and gold standards such as BiV-CRT with outcomes targeting electrical (QRS), function (LVEF) and biochemical changes (NT-proBNP). Other studies are looking at mechanisms of clinical response, and myocardial activation sequence using CSP compared to BiV.

Conclusion

Conduction tissue pacing in HIS Bundle pacing and LBBAP is feasible, safe, and quicker, with results comparable to cardiac resynchronization therapy. Extensive studies are required to directly compare the long-term clinical effectiveness of conduction system pacing against CRT.

Author contributions

AM underwent an extensive literature search for the review, drafted, edited the review on several occasions during peer review process, illustrated, created and edited figures, proofread and approved the manuscript. ASLT conceptualized, edited, proofread and approved the manuscript. HK conceptualized, drafted, illustrated figures, edited, proofread and approved the manuscript. All authors contributed to the article and approved the submitted version.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher's note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

References

1. Sanchez-Quintana D, Yen Ho S. Anatomy of cardiac nodes and atrioventricular specialized conduction system. Rev Esp Cardiol. (2003) 56(11):1085–92. doi: 10.1016/S0300-8932(03)77019-5

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

2. Auricchio A, Prinzen FW. Update on the pathophysiological basics of cardiac resynchronization therapy. Europace. (2008) 10(7):797–800. doi: 10.1093/europace/eun127

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

3. Prinzen FW, Hunter WC, Wyman BT, McVeigh ER. Mapping of regional myocardial strain and work during ventricular pacing: experimental study using magnetic resonance imaging tagging. J Am Coll Cardiol. (1999) 33(6):1735–42. doi: 10.1016/S0735-1097(99)00068-6

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

4. Baller D, Wolpers HG, Zipfel J, Bretschneider HJ, Hellige G. Comparison of the effects of right atrial, right ventricular apex and atrioventricular sequential pacing on myocardial oxygen consumption and cardiac efficiency: a laboratory investigation. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. (1988) 11(4):394–403. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.1988.tb05998.x

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

5. Schneider JF, Thomas HE Jr, Kreger BE, McNamara PM, Kannel WB. Newly acquired left bundle-branch block: the framingham study. Ann Intern Med. (1979) 90(3):303–10. doi: 10.7326/0003-4819-90-3-303

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

6. Zegard A, Okafor O, de Bono J, Steeds R, Hudsmith L, Stegemann B, et al. Prognosis of incidental left bundle branch block. Europace. (2020) 22(6):956–63. doi: 10.1093/europace/euaa008

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

7. Yang Y, Wang J, Wu B, Xu Y, Tang L, Jiang H, et al. New permanent bundle-branch block and long-term prognosis of patients with new onset ST-elevation myocardial infarction who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention. Front Physiol. (2022) 13:892623. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2022.892623

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

8. Aguilo O, Castells X, Miro O, Mueller C, Chioncel O, Trullas JC. The prognostic significance of bundle branch block in acute heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Res Cardiol. (2023) 112(8):1020–43. doi: 10.1007/s00392-022-02105-z

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

9. Valenti V, Zia MI, Shubayev L, Edelstein S, Supariwala A, Uretsky S, et al. Cardiac magnetic resonance evaluation of the impact of interventricular and intraventricular dyssynchrony on cardiac ventricular systolic and diastolic function in patients with isolated left bundle branch block. Am J Cardiol. (2012) 110(11):1651–6. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2012.07.036

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

10. Tang AS, Wells GA, Talajic M, Arnold MO, Sheldon R, Connolly S, et al. Cardiac-resynchronization therapy for mild-to-moderate heart failure. N Engl J Med. (2010) 363(25):2385–95. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1009540

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

11. Gasparini M, Birnie D, Lemke B, Aonuma K, Lee KL, Gorcsan J 3rd, et al. Adaptive cardiac resynchronization therapy reduces atrial fibrillation incidence in heart failure patients with prolonged AV conduction: the adaptive CRT randomized trial. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol. (2019) 12(5):e007260. doi: 10.1161/CIRCEP.119.007260

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

12. Adelstein EC, Saba S. Usefulness of baseline electrocardiographic QRS complex pattern to predict response to cardiac resynchronization. Am J Cardiol. (2009) 103(2):238–42. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2008.08.069

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

13. Nery PB, Ha AC, Keren A, Birnie DH. Cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and right bundle branch block: a systematic review. Heart Rhythm. (2011) 8(7):1083–7. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2011.01.041

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

14. Penicka M, Kocka V, Herman D, Trakalova H, Herold M. Cardiac resynchronization therapy for the causal treatment of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: insight from a pressure-volume loop analysis. Eur J Heart Fail. (2010) 12(6):634–6. doi: 10.1093/eurjhf/hfq068

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

15. Donal E, Lund L, Linde C, Daubert JC, KaRen i. Is cardiac resynchronization therapy an option in heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction? Justification for the ongoing KaRen project. Arch Cardiovasc Dis. (2010) 103(6-7):404–10. doi: 10.1016/j.acvd.2010.01.009

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

16. Khurshid S, Epstein AE, Verdino RJ, Lin D, Goldberg LR, Marchlinski FE, et al. Incidence and predictors of right ventricular pacing-induced cardiomyopathy. Heart Rhythm. (2014) 11(9):1619–25. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2014.05.040

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

17. Kiehl EL, Makki T, Kumar R, Gumber D, Kwon DH, Rickard JW, et al. Incidence and predictors of right ventricular pacing-induced cardiomyopathy in patients with complete atrioventricular block and preserved left ventricular systolic function. Heart Rhythm. (2016) 13(12):2272–8. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2016.09.027

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

18. Khurshid S, Frankel DS. Pacing-induced cardiomyopathy. Card Electrophysiol Clin. (2021) 13(4):741–53. doi: 10.1016/j.ccep.2021.06.009

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

19. Chango-Azanza DX, Munin MA, Sanchez GA, Arevalo-Perez LM, Chango-Azanza JJ, Pelayo ME, et al. Left ventricular dyssynchrony as result of right ventricular permanent apical pacing. Arch Cardiol Mex. (2020) 90(3):328–35. doi: 10.24875/ACM.20000003

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

20. Khurshid S, Liang JJ, Owens A, Lin D, Schaller R, Epstein AE, et al. Longer paced QRS duration is associated with increased prevalence of right ventricular pacing-induced cardiomyopathy. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. (2016) 27(10):1174–9. doi: 10.1111/jce.13045

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

21. Tops LF, Schalij MJ, Bax JJ. The effects of right ventricular apical pacing on ventricular function and dyssynchrony implications for therapy. J Am Coll Cardiol. (2009) 54(9):764–76. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2009.06.006

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

22. Sharma PS, Vijayaraman P. Conduction system pacing for cardiac resynchronisation. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev. (2021) 10(1):51–8. doi: 10.15420/aer.2020.45

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

23. Huang W, Su L, Wu S, Xu L, Xiao F, Zhou X, et al. A novel pacing strategy with low and stable output: pacing the left bundle branch immediately beyond the conduction block. Can J Cardiol. (2017) 33(12):1736.e1–.e3. doi: 10.1016/j.cjca.2017.09.013

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

24. Sharma PS, Patel NR, Ravi V, Zalavadia DV, Dommaraju S, Garg V, et al. Clinical outcomes of left bundle branch area pacing compared to right ventricular pacing: results from the geisinger-rush conduction system pacing registry. Heart Rhythm. (2022) 19(1):3–11. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2021.08.033

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

25. Teng AE, Lustgarten DL, Vijayaraman P, Tung R, Shivkumar K, Wagner GS, et al. Usefulness of his bundle pacing to achieve electrical resynchronization in patients with complete left bundle branch block and the relation between native QRS axis, duration, and normalization. Am J Cardiol. (2016) 118(4):527–34. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2016.05.049

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

26. Sharma PS, Ellison K, Patel HN, Trohman RG. Overcoming left bundle branch block by permanent his bundle pacing: evidence of longitudinal dissociation in the his via recordings from a permanent pacing lead. Heart Rhythm Case Rep. (2017) 3(11):499–502. doi: 10.1016/j.hrcr.2017.08.002

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

27. Beer D, Sharma PS, Subzposh FA, Naperkowski A, Pietrasik GM, Durr B, et al. Clinical outcomes of selective versus nonselective his bundle pacing. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. (2019) 5(7):766–74. doi: 10.1016/j.jacep.2019.04.008

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

28. Bednarek A, Ionita O, Moskal P, Linkova H, Kielbasa G, Prochazkova R, et al. Nonselective versus selective his bundle pacing: an acute intrapatient speckle-tracking strain echocardiographic study. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. (2021) 32(1):117–25. doi: 10.1111/jce.14834

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

29. Jastrzebski M, Moskal P, Bednarek A, Kielbasa G, Vijayaraman P, Czarnecka D. His bundle has a shorter chronaxie than does the adjacent ventricular myocardium: implications for pacemaker programming. Heart Rhythm. (2019) 16(12):1808–16. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2019.06.001

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

30. Zhang J, Guo J, Hou X, Wang Y, Qian Z, Li K, et al. Comparison of the effects of selective and non-selective his bundle pacing on cardiac electrical and mechanical synchrony. Europace. (2018) 20(6):1010–7. doi: 10.1093/europace/eux120

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

31. Kronborg MB, Mortensen PT, Poulsen SH, Gerdes JC, Jensen HK, Nielsen JC. His or para-his pacing preserves left ventricular function in atrioventricular block: a double-blind, randomized, crossover study. Europace. (2014) 16(8):1189–96. doi: 10.1093/europace/euu011

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

32. Ravi V, Beer D, Pietrasik GM, Hanifin JL, Ooms S, Ayub MT, et al. Development of new-onset or progressive atrial fibrillation in patients with permanent HIS bundle pacing versus right ventricular pacing: results from the RUSH HBP registry. J Am Heart Assoc. (2020) 9(22):e018478. doi: 10.1161/JAHA.120.018478

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

33. Kusumoto FM, Schoenfeld MH, Barrett C, Edgerton JR, Ellenbogen KA, Gold MR, et al. 2018 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline on the evaluation and management of patients with bradycardia and cardiac conduction delay: a report of the American college of cardiology/American heart association task force on clinical practice guidelines and the heart rhythm society. Circulation. (2019) 140(8):e382–482. doi: 10.1161/CIR.0000000000000628

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

34. Qi J, Jia X, Wang Z. His bundle pacing for cardiac resynchronization therapy: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. J Interv Card Electrophysiol. (2020) 59(2):463–70. doi: 10.1007/s10840-020-00827-6

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

35. Vijayaraman P, Dandamudi G, Subzposh FA, Shepard RK, Kalahasty G, Padala SK, et al. Imaging-based localization of his bundle pacing electrodes: results from the prospective IMAGE-HBP study. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. (2021) 7(1):73–84. doi: 10.1016/j.jacep.2020.07.026

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

36. Zanon F, Abdelrahman M, Marcantoni L, Naperkowski A, Subzposh FA, Pastore G, et al. Long term performance and safety of his bundle pacing: a multicenter experience. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. (2019) 30(9):1594–601. doi: 10.1111/jce.14063

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

37. Vijayaraman P, Naperkowski A, Subzposh FA, Abdelrahman M, Sharma PS, Oren JW, et al. Permanent his-bundle pacing: long-term lead performance and clinical outcomes. Heart Rhythm. (2018) 15(5):696–702. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2017.12.022

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

38. Vijayaraman P. His-bundle pacing to left bundle branch pacing: evolution of his-purkinje conduction system pacing. J Innov Card Rhythm Manag. (2019) 10(5):3668–73. doi: 10.19102/icrm.2019.100504

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

39. Herweg B, Welter-Frost A, Vijayaraman P. The evolution of cardiac resynchronization therapy and an introduction to conduction system pacing: a conceptual review. Europace. (2021) 23(4):496–510. doi: 10.1093/europace/euaa264

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

40. Wu S, Chen X, Wang S, Xu L, Xiao F, Huang Z, et al. Evaluation of the criteria to distinguish left bundle branch pacing from left ventricular septal pacing. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. (2021) 7(9):1166–77. doi: 10.1016/j.jacep.2021.02.018

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

41. Chen X, Wu S, Su L, Su Y, Huang W. The characteristics of the electrocardiogram and the intracardiac electrogram in left bundle branch pacing. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. (2019) 30(7):1096–101. doi: 10.1111/jce.13881

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

42. Zhou Y, Wang J, Wei Y, Zhang W, Yang Y, Rui S, et al. Left ventricular septal pacing versus left bundle branch pacing in the treatment of atrioventricular block. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol. (2022) 27(3):e12944. doi: 10.1111/anec.12944

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

43. Jastrzębski M. ECG and pacing criteria for differentiating conduction system pacing from myocardial pacing. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev. (2021) 10(3):172–80. doi: 10.15420/aer.2021.26

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

44. Jastrzebski M, Moskal P, Huybrechts W, Curila K, Sreekumar P, Rademakers LM, et al. Left bundle branch-optimized cardiac resynchronization therapy (LOT-CRT): results from an international LBBAP collaborative study group. Heart Rhythm. (2022) 19(1):13–21. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2021.07.057

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

45. Zu L, Wang Z, Hang F, Jiang Y, Wang X, Cheng L, et al. Cardiac resynchronization performed by LBBaP-CRT in patients with cardiac insufficiency and left bundle branch block. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol. (2021) 26(6):e12898. doi: 10.1111/anec.12898

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

46. Li Y, Chen K, Dai Y, Li C, Sun Q, Chen R, et al. Left bundle branch pacing for symptomatic bradycardia: implant success rate, safety, and pacing characteristics. Heart Rhythm. (2019) 16(12):1758–65. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2019.05.014

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

47. Zhang W, Huang J, Qi Y, Wang F, Guo L, Shi X, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy by left bundle branch area pacing in patients with heart failure and left bundle branch block. Heart Rhythm. (2019) 16(12):1783–90. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2019.09.006

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

48. Liu J, Sun F, Wang Z, Sun J, Jiang X, Zhao W, et al. Left bundle branch area pacing vs. biventricular pacing for cardiac resynchronization therapy: a meta-analysis. Front Cardiovasc Med. (2021) 8:669301. doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.669301

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

49. Li X, Li H, Ma W, Ning X, Liang E, Pang K, et al. Permanent left bundle branch area pacing for atrioventricular block: feasibility, safety, and acute effect. Heart Rhythm. (2019) 16(12):1766–73. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2019.04.043

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

50. Vijayaraman P, Subzposh FA, Naperkowski A, Panikkath R, John K, Mascarenhas V, et al. Prospective evaluation of feasibility and electrophysiologic and echocardiographic characteristics of left bundle branch area pacing. Heart Rhythm. (2019) 16(12):1774–82. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2019.05.011

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

51. Su L, Wang S, Wu S, Xu L, Huang Z, Chen X, et al. Long-term safety and feasibility of left bundle branch pacing in a large single-center study. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol. (2021) 14(2):e009261. doi: 10.1161/CIRCEP.120.009261

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

52. Jastrzębski M, Kiełbasa G, Cano O, Curila K, Heckman L, De Pooter J, et al. Left bundle branch area pacing outcomes: the multicentre European MELOS study. Eur Heart J. (2022) 43(40):4161–73. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac445

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

53. Ponnusamy SS, Vijayaraman P. Aborted ST-elevation myocardial infarction-an unusual complication of left bundle branch pacing. HeartRhythm Case Rep. (2020) 6(8):520–2. doi: 10.1016/j.hrcr.2020.05.010

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

54. Huang W, Wu S, Vijayaraman P, Su L, Chen X, Cai B, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy using left bundle branch pacing. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. (2020) 6(7):849–58. doi: 10.1016/j.jacep.2020.04.011

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

55. Liu W, Hu C, Wang Y, Cheng Y, Zhao Y, Liu Y, et al. Mechanical synchrony and myocardial work in heart failure patients with left bundle branch area pacing and comparison with biventricular pacing. Front Cardiovasc Med. (2021) 8:727611. doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.727611

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

56. Vijayaraman P, Herweg B, Ellenbogen KA, Gajek J. His-optimized cardiac resynchronization therapy to maximize electrical resynchronization: a feasibility study. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol. (2019) 12(2):e006934. doi: 10.1161/CIRCEP.118.006934

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

57. Vijayaraman P. Left bundle branch pacing optimized cardiac resynchronization therapy: a novel approach. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. (2021) 7(8):1076–8. doi: 10.1016/j.jacep.2021.04.005

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

58. Zweerink A, Zubarev S, Bakelants E, Potyagaylo D, Stettler C, Chmelevsky M, et al. His-optimized cardiac resynchronization therapy with ventricular fusion pacing for electrical resynchronization in heart failure. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. (2021) 7(7):881–92. doi: 10.1016/j.jacep.2020.11.029

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

59. Chung MK, Patton KK, Lau CP, Dal Forno ARJ, Al-Khatib SM, Arora V, et al. 2023 HRS/APHRS/LAHRS guideline on cardiac physiologic pacing for the avoidance and mitigation of heart failure. Heart Rhythm. (2023):S1547-5271(23)02026-X. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2023.03.1538 [published online ahead of print, 2023 May 20].37283271

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

60. Vardas PE, Auricchio A, Blanc JJ, Daubert JC, Drexler H, Ector H, et al. Guidelines for cardiac pacing and cardiac resynchronization therapy. The task force for cardiac pacing and cardiac resynchronization therapy of the European society of cardiology. Developed in collaboration with the European heart rhythm association. Europace. (2007) 9(10):959–98. doi: 10.1093/europace/eum189

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

61. Abraham WT, Fisher WG, Smith AL, Delurgio DB, Leon AR, Loh E, et al. Cardiac resynchronization in chronic heart failure. N Engl J Med. (2002) 346(24):1845–53. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa013168

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

62. Cleland JG, Daubert JC, Erdmann E, Freemantle N, Gras D, Kappenberger L, et al. The effect of cardiac resynchronization on morbidity and mortality in heart failure. N Engl J Med. (2005) 352(15):1539–49. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa050496

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

63. Bristow MR, Saxon LA, Boehmer J, Krueger S, Kass DA, De Marco T, et al. Cardiac-resynchronization therapy with or without an implantable defibrillator in advanced chronic heart failure. N Engl J Med. (2004) 350(21):2140–50. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa032423

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

64. Linde C, Abraham WT, Gold MR, St John, Sutton M, Ghio S, Daubert C. Randomized trial of cardiac resynchronization in mildly symptomatic heart failure patients and in asymptomatic patients with left ventricular dysfunction and previous heart failure symptoms. J Am Coll Cardiol. (2008) 52(23):1834–43. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2008.08.027

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

65. Moss AJ, Hall WJ, Cannom DS, Klein H, Brown MW, Daubert JP, et al. Cardiac-resynchronization therapy for the prevention of heart-failure events. N Engl J Med. (2009) 361(14):1329–38. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa0906431

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

66. Glikson M, Nielsen JC, Kronborg MB, Michowitz Y, Auricchio A, Barbash IM, et al. 2021 ESC guidelines on cardiac pacing and cardiac resynchronization therapy. Eur Heart J. (2021) 42(35):3427–520. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab364

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

67. Russo AM, Stainback RF, Bailey SR, Epstein AE, Heidenreich PA, Jessup M, et al. ACCF/HRS/AHA/ASE/HFSA/SCAI/SCCT/SCMR 2013 appropriate use criteria for implantable cardioverter-defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization therapy: a report of the American college of cardiology foundation appropriate use criteria task force, heart rhythm society, American heart association, American society of echocardiography, heart failure society of America, society for cardiovascular angiography and interventions, society of cardiovascular computed tomography, and society for cardiovascular magnetic resonance. Heart Rhythm. (2013) 10(4):e11–58. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2013.01.008

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

68. European Heart Rhythm Association; European Society of Cardiology; Heart Rhythm Society; Heart Failure Society of America; American Society of Echocardiography; American Heart Association; European Association of Echocardiography; Heart Failure Association, Daubert JC, Saxon L, Adamson PB, Auricchio A, Berger RD, Beshai JF, et al.. 2012 EHRA/HRS expert consensus statement on cardiac resynchronization therapy in heart failure: implant and follow-up recommendations and management. Heart Rhythm. (2012) 9(9):1524–76. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2012.07.025

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

69. Khurshid S, Obeng-Gyimah E, Supple GE, Schaller R, Lin D, Owens AT, et al. Reversal of pacing-induced cardiomyopathy following cardiac resynchronization therapy. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. (2018) 4(2):168–77. doi: 10.1016/j.jacep.2017.10.002

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

70. Goldenberg I, Kutyifa V, Klein HU, Cannom DS, Brown MW, Dan A, et al. Survival with cardiac-resynchronization therapy in mild heart failure. N Engl J Med. (2014) 370(18):1694–701. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1401426

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

71. Linde C, Gold MR, Abraham WT, St John, Sutton M, Ghio S, Cerkvenik J, et al. Long-term impact of cardiac resynchronization therapy in mild heart failure: 5-year results from the resynchronization reverses remodeling in systolic left ventricular dysfunction (REVERSE) study. Eur Heart J. (2013) 34(33):2592–9. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/eht160

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

72. Aiba T, Hesketh GG, Barth AS, Liu T, Daya S, Chakir K, et al. Electrophysiological consequences of dyssynchronous heart failure and its restoration by resynchronization therapy. Circulation. (2009) 119(9):1220–30. doi: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.108.794834

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

73. Auricchio A, Ding J, Spinelli JC, Kramer AP, Salo RW, Hoersch W, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy restores optimal atrioventricular mechanical timing in heart failure patients with ventricular conduction delay. J Am Coll Cardiol. (2002) 39(7):1163–9. doi: 10.1016/S0735-1097(02)01727-8

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

74. Leyva F, Nisam S, Auricchio A. 20 years of cardiac resynchronization therapy. J Am Coll Cardiol. (2014) 64(10):1047–58. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2014.06.1178

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

75. Odland HH, Holm T, Gammelsrud LO, Cornelussen R, Kongsgaard E. Determinants of LV dP/dt(max) and QRS duration with different fusion strategies in cardiac resynchronisation therapy. Open Heart. (2021) 8(1):e001615. doi: 10.1136/openhrt-2021-001615

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

76. Bhatta L, Luck JC, Wolbrette DL, Naccarelli GV. Complications of biventricular pacing. Curr Opin Cardiol. (2004) 19(1):31–5. doi: 10.1097/00001573-200401000-00008

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

77. Gamble JHP, Herring N, Ginks M, Rajappan K, Bashir Y, Betts TR, et al. Procedural success of left ventricular lead placement for cardiac resynchronization therapy: a meta-analysis. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. (2016) 2(1):69–77. doi: 10.1016/j.jacep.2015.08.009

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

78. McAlister FA, Ezekowitz J, Hooton N, Vandermeer B, Spooner C, Dryden DM, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy for patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction: a systematic review. J Am Med Assoc. (2007) 297(22):2502–14. doi: 10.1001/jama.297.22.2502

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

79. Healey JS, Hohnloser SH, Exner DV, Birnie DH, Parkash R, Connolly SJ, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with permanent atrial fibrillation: results from the resynchronization for ambulatory heart failure trial (RAFT). Circ Heart Fail. (2012) 5(5):566–70. doi: 10.1161/CIRCHEARTFAILURE.112.968867

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

80. Brignole M, Pentimalli F, Palmisano P, Landolina M, Quartieri F, Occhetta E, et al. AV junction ablation and cardiac resynchronization for patients with permanent atrial fibrillation and narrow QRS: the APAF-CRT mortality trial. Eur Heart J. (2021) 42(46):4731–9. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab569

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

81. Mullens W, Grimm RA, Verga T, Dresing T, Starling RC, Wilkoff BL, et al. Insights from a cardiac resynchronization optimization clinic as part of a heart failure disease management program. J Am Coll Cardiol. (2009) 53(9):765–73. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2008.11.024

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

82. Bax JJ, Gorcsan J 3rd. Echocardiography and noninvasive imaging in cardiac resynchronization therapy: results of the PROSPECT (predictors of response to cardiac resynchronization therapy) study in perspective. J Am Coll Cardiol. (2009) 53(21):1933–43. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2008.11.061

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

83. Kandala J, Altman RK, Park MY, Singh JP. Clinical, laboratory, and pacing predictors of CRT response. J Cardiovasc Transl Res. (2012) 5(2):196–212. doi: 10.1007/s12265-012-9352-0

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

84. Leclercq C, Burri H, Curnis A, Delnoy PP, Rinaldi CA, Sperzel J, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy non-responder to responder conversion rate in the more response to cardiac resynchronization therapy with MultiPoint pacing (MORE-CRT MPP) study: results from phase I. Eur Heart J. (2019) 40(35):2979–87. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehz109

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

85. Younis A, Goldenberg M, Kutyifa V, Polonsky B, McNitt S, Zareba W, et al. Applicability of the MADIT-CRT response score for prediction of long-term clinical and arrhythmic events by QRS morphology. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol. (2020) 13(9):e008499. doi: 10.1161/CIRCEP.120.008499

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

86. Bertini M, Mele D, Malagù M, Fiorencis A, Toselli T, Casadei F, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy guided by multimodality cardiac imaging. Eur J Heart Fail. (2016) 18(11):1375–82. doi: 10.1002/ejhf.605

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

87. Erath JW, Vamos M, Domokos D, Benz AP, Bari Z, Bogyi P, et al. Effects of implantation of quadripolar left ventricular leads on CRT response. J Interv Card Electrophysiol. (2019) 55(1):73–81. doi: 10.1007/s10840-019-00545-8

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

88. Oswald H, Asbach S, Kobe J, Weglage H, Schulte-Pitzke B, Brachmann J. Effectiveness and reliability of selected site pacing for avoidance of phrenic nerve stimulation in CRT patients with quadripolar LV leads: the EffaceQ study. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. (2015) 38(8):942–50. doi: 10.1111/pace.12664

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

89. Zanon F, Baracca E, Pastore G, Marcantoni L, Fraccaro C, Lanza D, et al. Multipoint pacing by a left ventricular quadripolar lead improves the acute hemodynamic response to CRT compared with conventional biventricular pacing at any site. Heart Rhythm. (2015) 12(5):975–81. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2015.01.034

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

90. Gamble JHP, Herring N, Ginks M, Rajappan K, Bashir Y, Betts TR. Endocardial left ventricular pacing for cardiac resynchronization: systematic review and meta-analysis. Europace. (2018) 20(1):73–81. doi: 10.1093/europace/euw381

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

91. Gamble JH, Bashir Y, Rajappan K, Betts TR. Left ventricular endocardial pacing via the interventricular septum for cardiac resynchronization therapy: first report. Heart Rhythm. (2013) 10(12):1812–4. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2013.07.033

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

92. Kassai I, Foldesi C, Szekely A, Szili-Torok T. New method for cardiac resynchronization therapy: transapical endocardial lead implantation for left ventricular free wall pacing. Europace. (2008) 10(7):882–3. doi: 10.1093/europace/eun090

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

93. Mihalcz A, Kassai I, Kardos A, Foldesi C, Theuns D, Szili-Torok T. Comparison of the efficacy of two surgical alternatives for cardiac resynchronization therapy: trans-apical versus epicardial left ventricular pacing. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. (2012) 35(2):124–30. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2011.03239.x

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

94. Gui Y, Ye L, Wu L, Mai H, Yan Q, Wang L. Clinical outcomes associated with his-purkinje system pacing vs. biventricular pacing, in cardiac resynchronization therapy: a meta-analysis. Front Cardiovasc Med. (2022) 9:707148. doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.707148

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

95. Arnold AD, Shun-Shin MJ, Keene D, Howard JP, Sohaib SMA, Wright IJ, et al. His resynchronization versus biventricular pacing in patients with heart failure and left bundle branch block. J Am Coll Cardiol. (2018) 72(24):3112–22. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2018.09.073

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

96. Zizek D, Antolic B, Meznar AZ, Zavrl-Dzananovic D, Jan M, Stublar J, et al. Biventricular versus his bundle pacing after atrioventricular node ablation in heart failure patients with narrow QRS. Acta Cardiol. (2022) 77(3):222–30. doi: 10.1080/00015385.2021.1903196

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

97. Huang W, Wang S, Su L, Fu G, Su Y, Chen K, et al. His-bundle pacing vs biventricular pacing following atrioventricular nodal ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation and reduced ejection fraction: a multicenter, randomized, crossover study-the ALTERNATIVE-AF trial. Heart Rhythm. (2022) 19(12):1948–55. doi: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.07.009

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

98. Wu S, Su L, Vijayaraman P, Zheng R, Cai M, Xu L, et al. Left bundle branch pacing for cardiac resynchronization therapy: nonrandomized on-treatment comparison with his bundle pacing and biventricular pacing. Can J Cardiol. (2021) 37(2):319–28. doi: 10.1016/j.cjca.2020.04.037

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

99. Wang Y, Gu K, Qian Z, Hou X, Chen X, Qiu Y, et al. The efficacy of left bundle branch area pacing compared with biventricular pacing in patients with heart failure: a matched case-control study. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. (2020) 31(8):2068–77. doi: 10.1111/jce.14628

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

100. Wang Y, Zhu H, Hou X, Wang Z, Zou F, Qian Z, et al. Randomized trial of left bundle branch vs biventricular pacing for cardiac resynchronization therapy. J Am Coll Cardiol. (2022) 80(13):1205–16. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2022.07.019

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

101. Diaz JC, Sauer WH, Duque M, Koplan BA, Braunstein ED, Marín JE, et al. Left bundle branch area pacing versus biventricular pacing as initial strategy for cardiac resynchronization. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. (2023):S2405-500X(23)00268-2. doi: 10.1016/j.jacep.2023.04.015 [published online ahead of print, 2023 May 19].37212761

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

102. Vijayaraman P, Sharma PS, Cano Ó, Ponnusamy SS, Herweg B, Zanon F, et al. Comparison of left bundle-branch area pacing to biventricular pacing in candidates for resynchronization therapy. J Am Coll Cardiol. (2023) 82(3):228–41. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.05.006.37220862

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

103. Chen X, Ye Y, Wang Z, Jin Q, Qiu Z, Wang J, et al. Cardiac resynchronization therapy via left bundle branch pacing vs. optimized biventricular pacing with adaptive algorithm in heart failure with left bundle branch block: a prospective, multi-centre, observational study. Europace. (2022) 24(5):807–16. doi: 10.1093/europace/euab249

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Keywords: conduction system pacing, His bundle pacing, left bundle branch area pacing, LBBAP, biventricular pacing, CRT

Citation: Moustafa AT, Tang ASL and Khan HR (2023) Conduction system pacing on track to replace CRT? Review of current evidence and prospects of conduction system pacing. Front. Cardiovasc. Med. 10:1220709. doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1220709

Received: 11 May 2023; Accepted: 31 July 2023;
Published: 15 August 2023.

Edited by:

Alexander H. Maass, University Medical Center Groningen, Netherlands

Reviewed by:

Jiangang Zou, Nanjing Medical University, China
Xueying Chen, Fudan University, China

© 2023 Moustafa, Tang and Khan. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Habib Rehman Khan aGFiaWIua2hhbkBsaHNjLm9uLmNh

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.