Resynchronization therapy for failing sub-pulmonary right ventricle in congenital heart disease

Abstract

Pulmonary right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is present in a number of congenital heart lesions after repair surgery. It is frequently associated with right bundle branch block (RBBB) as a source of electromechanical dyssynchrony which may contribute to RV failure.

RV cardiac resynchronization therapy (RV-CRT) may be used to improve RV function, electromechanical synchrony and contraction efficiency. It is effective in the immediate postoperative period as a temporary treatment option.

Limited evidence also indicates the effectiveness of permanent RV-CRT. Further studies are needed to better define its role in long-term RV failure management.

Keywords

• Bundle branch block
• Cardiac resynchronization therapy
• Congenital heart disease
• Right ventricular dysfunction
• Right ventricular dyssynchrony