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Background: Acute pulmonary embolism can quickly cause hemodynamic collapse and death. Recent studies have shown that different characteristics of electrocardiogram (ECG) can be used to predict the prognosis of patients. This study aimed to investigate the relative frequency of fragmented QRS in the ECG of patients with pulmonary embolism and its prognostic value. Methods: This study was conducted retrospectively. The files of 106 patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism from January 2016 to the end of March 2020 were selected and reviewed. The findings of the ECG, including the ST elevation in V1-V4 leads with and without T invention, right axis deviation, right bundle branch block (RBBB), PR, QRS, QTc intervals, type of treatment (thrombolysis or embolectomy), cardiogenic shock, mortality were collected. Finally, the data were recorded and analyzed in SPSS software Version 16. Results: Hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus were the most frequent risk factors among the patients. The relative frequency of fragmented QRS, at least in one lead, was 26.2%. The use of thrombolysis, mechanical ventilation, embolectomy, cardiogenic shock, and in-hospital death was significantly higher among patients who had fragmented QRS (P<0.001). CTNI was significantly higher in patients with fragmented QRS (P=0.001). In patients with fragmented QRS large vessels, involvement was significantly higher. Conclusion: This study showed that the presence of fragmented QRS in the ECG of acute embolism patients has a significant relationship with cardiogenic shock, hospital mortality, and the need for advanced treatment methods such as intubation, embolectomy, and the use of thrombolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract For decades, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF

For decades, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF < 35%) has been a mainstay for identifying heart failure (HF) patients most likely to benefit from an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). However, LVEF is a poor predictor of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and ignores 50% of HF patients with mildly reduced and preserved LVEF. The current international guidelines for primary prophylaxis ICD therapy are inadequate. Instead of LVEF, which is not a good measure of LV contractility or hemodynamic characterization, we hypothesize ventriculo-arterial (VA) coupling combined with fragmented QRS (fQRS) will improve risk stratification and patient suitability for an ICD. Quantifying cardiac and aortic mechanics, and predicting active arrhythmogenic substrate, from varying fQRS morphologies, may help to stratify ischemic and non-ischemic patients with different functional capacities and predisposition for lethal arrhythmias. We propose HF patients with a low physiological reserve may not benefit from ICD therapy, whereas those patients with higher reserves and extensive arrhythmogenic substrate may benefit. Our hypothesis combining VA coupling with fQRS changes has the potential to widen HF patient participation (low and high LVEF) and advance personalized medicine for HF patients at high risk of SCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Carbon monoxide (CO) intoxication is one of the most common causes of poisoning-related deaths and complications. Myocardial injury is an important complication of CO poisoning. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between the presence and prevalence of fragmented QRS (fQRS) and myocardial injury in patients with CO intoxication. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated patients who presented to the emergency department of our tertiary care center with CO intoxication between January 2020 and December 2023. In our study, we performed subgroup analyses according to the presence of myocardial injury and fQRS. We evaluated the parameters and risk factors associated with myocardial injury. Results: Myocardial injury was detected in 44 patients, and fQRS was detected in 38 patients. In the myocardial injury (+) group, the fQRS rate was 38.6%, and the median number of leads with fQRS was 3 (2–6) and was significantly higher than in the myocardial injury (−) group (p < 0.001). We found that carboxyhemoglobin had a significant positive correlation with troponin (p = 0.001) and pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (proBNP) (p = 0.009). As a result of multivariate analysis, we determined that age, creatinine, proBNP, fQRS, and ≥3 leads with fQRS are independent risk factors for myocardial injury. Conclusions: Myocardial injury in CO intoxication patients is associated with proBNP, the presence of fQRS, and the number of leads with fQRS. Age, creatinine level, proBNP, the presence of fQRS, and ≥3 leads with fQRS are independent risk factors for myocardial injury in patients with CO intoxication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Fragmented QRS complex (fQRS) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, sudden cardiac death, and recurrent cardiovascular events. The role of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in the primary treatment of acute myocardial infarction remains controversial. In this study, we aimed to assess the predictive value of fQRS in-hospital mortality among acute segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients undergoing emergency CABG for primary revascularization. Patients and Methods: Between 2010 and 2020, we retrospectively included 99 consecutive STEMI patients who were not eligible for primary percutaneous intervention and required emergency CABG. The study population was divided into two groups: survivors and non-survivors. We compared the two groups regarding demographic, clinical, and operative characteristics. Results: fQRS was identified as an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality (p = 0.037). Additionally, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality (p = 0.028). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), glucose levels, and Killip class > III were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality (p = 0.002), (p = 0.001) and (p < 0.001). Conclusion: fQRS emerged as an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality among patients undergoing emergency CABG for primary revascularization in cases of STEMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preoperative left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (PreLVEF) and preoperative LV end-systolic diameter (PreESD) are known predictors for postoperative LV dysfunction after mitral valve repair (MVR). Fragmented QRS (fQRS) evaluated in 12-derivation electrocardiography has widely been accepted as a sign of myocardial fibrosis. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between fQRS in preoperative 12‑lead electrocardiography (ECG) and postoperative LV dysfunction that develop after MVR in patients with severe primary mitral regurgitation (MR) due to mitral valve prolapse (MVP). From 2019 to 2022, 49 patients who had undergone successful MVR surgery for severeMR caused by MVP were enrolled in the study. The preoperative and postoperative echocardiographic data were collected retrospectively. We analyzed the demographic, echocardiographic, operative and postoperative parameters to assess the relationship between fQRS and early postoperative LV dysfunction, defined as an LVEF<60%. PreLVEF of all patients were ≥ %65. A total of 22 patients had fQRS (44.9%) and postoperative LV dysfunction was found to be 36.7%. A significantly higher rate of fQRS was observed in the group with postoperative LV dysfunction compared to the group without (12 (66.7%) vs 10 (32.3%), p: 0.036). In multivariate analysis for fQRS, PreESD, preoperative pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PrePASP), preoperative atrial fibrillation (PreAF), and male gender, only fQRS was found to be a significant predictor of postoperative LV dysfunction (p: 0.003, OR: 4.28, 95% CI (1.15–15.96). fQRS was found to be a predictor of postoperative LV dysfunction in the early period after MVR. fQRS may be a readily available and cost-effective test that can be used in clinical practice to predict postoperative LV dysfunction in patients undergoing MVR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fragmented QRS (fQRS) might be associated with certain characteristics in ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients and inhospital adverse events. Materials and Methods: A sum of 500 patients were gone over retrospectively. Patients with STEMI, all undergone percutaneous coronary intervention, were grouped as fQRS (-) and fQRS (+). Characteristics of the patients, major adverse cardiac event (MACE), death in hospital, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), stent thrombosis, slow flow myocardial perfusion, development of ventricular tachycardia (VT) and fibrillation, cardiogenic shock and cardiopulmonary arrest were filtered. Results: FQRS (-) group was composed of 207 patients whose mean age was 61.1 ± 12.1, whereas 293 patients were there in fQRS (+) with a mean age of 66.7 ± 10.6 (P < 0.001). Thrombolysis in MI (TIMI) (P < 0.01), the global registry of acute coronary events (GRACE) (P < 0.01) scores, white blood cell count, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, MACE and the ratio of death in hospital and VT in the hospital were significantly higher in fQRS (+) group (P < 0.001, for remaining all). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, TIMI scores above 2 and GRACE scores above 109 were determined as independent predictors of MACE in the entire patient group (odds ratio [OR]: 2.022; 95% confidence interval [CI]; 1.321-3.424, P = 0.003; OR: 1.712; 95% CI: 1.156-2.804, P = 0.008). Conclusion: FQRS (+) and fQRS (-) patients markedly differ from each other in terms of certain demographic and clinical features and TIMI and GRACE scores have a significant predictive value for MACE in all STEMI patients' group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Fragmented QRS (fQRS), which is associated with rhythm disturbances, can predispose the heart to fatal ventricular arrhythmias. Recently, accumulating studies indicates that fQRS is associated with poor prognosis in various types of cardiomyopathies. Therefore, we assessed the association between fQRS with all‐cause mortality and major arrhythmic events (MAEs) in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy, in this systematic review and meta‐analysis study. Methods: We performed a comprehensive search in databases of PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, and Web of Science from the beginning to December 31, 2022. Published observational studies (cohorts, case–control, or analytical cross‐sectional studies) were included that report the prognostic value of fQRS in patients with different types of nonischemic cardiomyopathies for MAEs (sudden cardiac death, sudden cardiac arrest, sustained ventricular tachycardia [VT], ventricular fibrillation [VF], and appropriate shock) and all‐cause mortality. We pooled risk ratios (RRs) through raw data and adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) using "Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis" software, Version 2.0. Results: Nineteen cohort and three analytical cross‐sectional studies were included in this meta‐analysis involving a total of 4318 subjects with nonischemic cardiomyopathy (1279 with fQRS and 3039 without fQRS). FQRS was significantly associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy (pooled RR: 1.920; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.388–2.656, p < 0.0001/pooled HR: 1.729; 95% CI: 1.327–2.251, p < 0.0001). Also, the risk of developing MAEs in the presence of fQRS was significantly increased (pooled RR: 2.041; 95% CI: 1.644–2.533, p < 0.0001/pooled HR: 3.626; 95% CI: 2.119–6.204, p < 0.0001). In the subgroup analysis, the strongest association between fQRS presence and increased MAEs was observed in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) (pooled RR: 3.44; 95% CI: 2.07–5.71, p < 0.0001/pooled HR: 3.21; 95% CI: 2.04–5.06, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Fragmented QRS could be a prognostic marker for all‐cause mortality and MAEs in patients with various types of nonischemic cardiomyopathies, particularly HCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract Background and Aims Fragmented QRS (fQRS), which is associated with rhythm disturbances, can predispose the heart to fatal ventricular arrhythmias. Recently, accumulating studies indicates that fQRS is associated with poor prognosis in various types of cardiomyopathies. Therefore, we assessed the association between fQRS with all‐cause mortality and major arrhythmic events (MAEs) in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy, in this systematic review and meta‐analysis study. Methods We performed a comprehensive search in databases of PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, and Web of Science from the beginning to December 31, 2022. Published observational studies (cohorts, case–control, or analytical cross‐sectional studies) were included that report the prognostic value of fQRS in patients with different types of nonischemic cardiomyopathies for MAEs (sudden cardiac death, sudden cardiac arrest, sustained ventricular tachycardia [VT], ventricular fibrillation [VF], and appropriate shock) and all‐cause mortality. We pooled risk ratios (RRs) through raw data and adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) using “Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis” software, Version 2.0. Results Nineteen cohort and three analytical cross‐sectional studies were included in this meta‐analysis involving a total of 4318 subjects with nonischemic cardiomyopathy (1279 with fQRS and 3039 without fQRS). FQRS was significantly associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy (pooled RR: 1.920; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.388–2.656, p

Background: Fragmented QRS (fQRS) on electrocardiography is a marker of myocardial fibrosis and scar formation. We aimed to investigate whether the fQRS complex in children with and without obesity correlates with Body Mass Index (BMI). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 104 children (5 to 17 years) referred to the pediatric clinic were studied. We divided participants into normal and obese groups. Standard 12-lead ECGs, anthropometric data, and blood pressure were recorded. All ECGs were analyzed blindly by two independent clinicians. Surveyed parameters of the ECG included heart rate, QRS duration, QT interval, presence of Q waves, and fQRS. Results: Among 104 participants, 52 patients had normal BMI and 52 cases were obese. Systolic blood pressure (p=0.001), pulse pressure (p=0.007), mean blood pressure (p=0.006), and heart rate (p=0.009) were meaningfully different between the two groups. We found fQRS in four children with obesity. The frequency of fQRS was significantly different between children with obesity and children in the control group (p=0.041). We have found that each unit change of weight and BMI at 1.07 and 1.45, respectively, could be useful in prediction of the occurrence of fQRS complex in children. Conclusion: This study suggested a significant association between the fQRS in children's ECG and their weight and BMI. It would appear that each unit increasing weight and BMI predicts an increasing the occurrence of fQRS. The ECG may consider using fQRS as a cardiac risk marker in children with obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Fragmented QRS (fQRS), as defined by additional spikes in the QRS complex of a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG), is a marker of scarred myocardium. In patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), fQRS is a predictor of heart failure (HF) and other major adverse cardiac events (MACE). The study was aimed to evaluate the role of fQRS in prediction of HF in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: In a prospective, non-randomized, small observational study, we enrolled 188 consecutive patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI. Patients were grouped according to the presence or absence of fQRS and their inhospital, 1 and 6-month MACE outcomes were assessed. Results: Of the 188 patients, fQRS were noted in 92 (48.94%) patients. Patients with fQRS were more likely to have Killip class II/III/IV. Patients with fQRS had a significantly higher corrected QT interval, lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and higher N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) at 24 hours and 48 hours compared to patients without fQRS. The in-hospital (P=0.001), 30-day (P=0.03) and 6-month (p=0.01) MACE were higher in patients with fQRS. On logistic multiple analysis, fQRS in anterior leads (OR=3.70, CI=1.68-10.02, p=0.001), fQRS in more than 2 leads (OR=5.20, CI=1.51-12.83, p=0.01), NT-proBNP (OR=1.05, CI=1.03-1.08, p=0.02) and Killip class II/III/IV were found to be significant predictors for HF hospitalization. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that fQRS can be a predictor for HF in patients with STEMI and provide a simple and readily available technique for predicting prognosis. Larger studies are required to validate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Carbon monoxide (CO) intoxication is one of the most common causes of poisoning-related deaths and complications. Myocardial injury is an important complication of CO poisoning. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between the presence and prevalence of fragmented QRS (fQRS) and myocardial injury in patients with CO intoxication. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated patients who presented to the emergency department of our tertiary care center with CO intoxication between January 2020 and December 2023. In our study, we performed subgroup analyses according to the presence of myocardial injury and fQRS. We evaluated the parameters and risk factors associated with myocardial injury. Results: Myocardial injury was detected in 44 patients, and fQRS was detected in 38 patients. In the myocardial injury (+) group, the fQRS rate was 38.6%, and the median number of leads with fQRS was 3 (2–6) and was significantly higher than in the myocardial injury (−) group (p < 0.001). We found that carboxyhemoglobin had a significant positive correlation with troponin (p = 0.001) and pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (proBNP) (p = 0.009). As a result of multivariate analysis, we determined that age, creatinine, proBNP, fQRS, and ≥3 leads with fQRS are independent risk factors for myocardial injury. Conclusions: Myocardial injury in CO intoxication patients is associated with proBNP, the presence of fQRS, and the number of leads with fQRS. Age, creatinine level, proBNP, the presence of fQRS, and ≥3 leads with fQRS are independent risk factors for myocardial injury in patients with CO intoxication.

Aim: Bipolar disorder (BD) is one of the chronic psychiatric diseases. It has been reported that cardiovascular diseases are seen twice as often in patients with BD. Fragmented QRS (fQRS) has been found to be associated with myocardial scarring and is used as a marker of arrhythmia and mortality. Ventricular repolarization (VR) is often evaluated using QT interval and T wave measurement data. In our study, we aimed to evaluate fQRS, QTc interval, QT dispersion (QTd), Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT ratio results and VR, together with blood biochemistry parameter results of cases with BD. Material and Method: Our research was conducted with 51 people diagnosed with bipolar disorder and 52 healthy people as the control group. fQRS, QTc interval, QT dispersion (QTd), Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT ratio were measured using 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG). The results of the data obtained from ECG and blood biochemistry parameter levels were used to compare the healthy and patient groups. Results: Tp-e interval (p=0.018) and Tpe/QT ratio (p=0.036) were found to be statistically significantly higher and total cholesterol level (p=0.006) lower in patients with bipolar disorder compared to the control group. Conclusion: An increased Tpe/QT ratio, along with a prolonged Tp-e interval, may be a useful marker of ventricular arrhythmia risk in individuals with fQRS BD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thyroid disorders are associated with many cardiovascular risk factors. The importance of thyroid hormones in the pathophysiology of heart failure is underlined by the European guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology. However, the role of subclinical hyperthyroidism (SCH) in subclinical left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction is not entirely clear. Methods: This cross‐sectional study included 56 SCH patients and 40 healthy volunteers. The 56 SCH group was divided into two subgroups depending on the presence of fragmented QRS (fQRS). In both groups, left ventricular global area strain (LV‐GAS), global radial strain (GRS), global longitudinal strain (GLS), and global circumferential strain (GCS) were obtained with four‐dimensional (4D) echocardiography. Results: GAS, GRS, GLS, and GCS values were significantly different in SCH patients and in healthy volunteers. GLS and GAS values were lower in the fQRS+ than in the fQRS− group (−17.06 ± 1.00 vs. −19.08 ± 1.71, p <.001, and −26.61 ± 2.38 vs. −30.61 ± 2.57, p <.001, respectively). ProBNP was positively correlated with LV‐GLS (r = 0.278, p =.006) and LV‐GAS (r = 0.357, p <.001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that fQRS was an independent predictor of LV‐GAS. Conclusions: 4D strain echocardiography may be helpful for the prediction of early cardiac dysfunction in patients with SCH. The presence of fQRS may be an indicator of subclinical LV dysfunction in SCH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fragmented QRS (fQRS) on a 12-lead electrocardiogram is a known marker of fatal arrhythmias or cardiac adverse events in ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy patients. Nonetheless, the association between fQRS and clinical outcomes in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) remains unclear. Herein, we investigated whether fQRS is associated with long-term clinical outcomes in CS patients. A total of 78 patients who received immunosuppressive therapy (IST) for clinically diagnosed CS were retrospectively examined. Patients were classified into two groups according to the presence (n = 19) or absence (n = 59) of fQRS on electrocardiogram before IST. The primary outcome was the composite event of all-cause death, ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VTs), and hospitalization for heart failure. Results of late gadolinium enhancement on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging were also analyzed. During a median follow-up period of 3.7 years (interquartile range: 1.6–6.2 years), the primary outcome occurred more frequently in patients with fQRS than in those without (47% vs. 13%, log-rank p = 0.002). Multivariable Cox regression analyses showed that fQRS was an independent determinant of the primary outcome. The incidence of VTs, within 12 months of IST initiation, was comparable between the two groups; however, late-onset VTs, defined as those occurring ≥ 12 months after IST initiation, occurred more frequently in the fQRS group (21% vs. 2%, log-rank p = 0.002). The scar zone and scar border zone were greater in patients with fQRS than in those without it. In conclusion, our analysis suggests that fQRS is an independent predictor of adverse events, particularly late-onset VTs, in patients with CS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a malignant pulmonary vascular disease primarily caused by increased pulmonary vascular resistance, which leads to right ventricular hypertrophy, fibrosis, right heart failure and death. Fragmented QRS (fQRS) indicates non-homogeneous ventricular activity caused by myocardial fibrosis. This study aims to investigate the importance of fQRS in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) and to determine the role of the presence of fQRS in indicating the severity of the disease. The study included 94 (85 patient group 1 PH and 9 patient group 4 PH) patients. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of fQRS in their surface electrocardiography (ECG). The patients' laboratory, transthoracic echocardiography, and right heart catheterization parameters were compared between the two groups . FQRS was detected in 55 (58%) patients, and the mean age of these patients was 51.8±18.0, and 29.1% of them were male. Systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) measured by transthoracic echocardiography (p [Med-Science 2022; 11(4.000): 1619-24]

Aim: It is important to assess the likelihood of cardiovascular disease in patients with bipolar disorder (BD). In this study, indicators of increased cardiovascular disease risk on electrocardiogram (ECG) and laboratory were evaluated. Material and Methods: In the present investigation, we studied the demographic details, ECG variables, and blood test results of 90 healthy controls (HC) and 97 patients we followed for BD diagnosis. Results: Age and gender trends were similar between the BD and HC groups (p=0.844 and p=0.664). BD had a higher mean number of fragmented QRS (fQRS) than the HC group, and fQRS was more frequent (p=0.002 and p=0.007). The frontal QRS-T angle was wider in the BD group than it was in the HC group (p=0.038). Monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), monocytes to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio (MHR), and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) were statistically greater in BD patients (p=0.021, p<0.001, and p<0.001). Conclusion: In brief, the report indicates that impaired ventricular repolarization is related to an elevation in the frontal QRS-T angle in BD. As a result, BD patients have a greater risk of cardiovascular mortality and ventricular arrhythmias. As a result, clinicians ought to have a greater understanding of the frontal QRS-T angle and conduct an ECG examination on regular controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential association between the presence of a fragmented QRS (fQRS) pattern on electrocardiogram (ECG) and prognostic outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF). Methods: In the study, 238 patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction of less than 35% were included. The presence of fQRS pattern on ECG was analyzed in all patients. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of fQRS on ECG. The primary clinical end points were all-cause mortality and rehospitalization. Results: Baseline demographic characteristics were comparable between the groups. Patients with fQRS had a higher frequency of coronary artery disease and atrial fibrillation (72 (76%) vs 90 (62%), p = 0.023; 27 (29%) vs 25 (17%), p = 0.038, respectively). Additionally, patients with fQRS had a higher rate of mortality and rehospitalization during the 5-year follow-up period compared to patients without fQRS. (30 (32%) / 28 (19%), p = 0.028; 56 (60%) / 50 (35%), p < 0.001, respectively). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the presence of fQRS was independently associated with mortality and rehospitalization (p = 0.02 and p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that the presence of fQRS on ECG in patients with HF is independently related to a higher risk of mortality and hospitalization. Therefore, the presence of fQRS may be a useful indicator of poor prognosis in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In systemic sclerosis (SSc) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) cardiac involvement is very common, and it might be asymptomatic. We aimed to assess the presence of fragmented QRS (fQRS) - possible indicator of a scar, diffuse damage or conduction system disturbances in those patients.Methods: We examined 74 patients with SSc, 77 with SLE and 40 healthy controls. The incidence of fQRS in ECG was examined according to criteria by Das et al. Disease severity was estimated by Rodnan and SLICCC/ACRDI scores in SSc and SLE respectively.Results: Patients with SSc were slightly older than those with SLE (53 ± 14 vs 46 ± 14 yrs), women constituted 91% and 88% of studied groups (p = 0.80). The duration of disease in both groups was similar (p = 0.59). Median of Rodnan and SLICCC/ACR-DI scores were 5 and 4 points, respectively. Left ventricle ejection fraction in both groups was similar (65.5 vs 65.1%, p = 0.51), hypertension incidence was lower in SSc (24 vs 48%, p = 0.004), patients with SLE presented prolonged corrected QT interval (432 vs 424 ms, p = 0.03). Of note, fQRS were observed in 34 (46%) SSc and 29 (38%) SLE patients, p = 0.33. Notched S waves were significantly more frequent in SSc (in 26% vs 10%, p = 0.02). fQRS occurred in 3 (7.5%) of healthy subjects only.Conclusion: The incidence of fQRS is similar in SSc and SLE, but is much more common than in healthy subjects. It is possible that fQRS may be considered an additional marker of heart involvement in these rare diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. To study the features of 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG) in patients with critical aortic stenosis referred for transcatheter aortic valve implantation.Material and methods. The study included 50 patients aged 76,6±6,5 years. The presence of intraventricular block, voltage criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), fragmented QRS complex, and repolarization alternans were assessed on the ECG. The frontal QRS-T angle (fQRS-Ta) was estimated as the absolute value of the difference between the QRS axis and T wave axis.Results. Intraventricular blocks were present in 10 (20%) patients: 8 (36%) patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH), 2 (7%) patients without PH (p=0,028). Voltage criteria for LVH were present in 24 (60%) patients. In the presence of voltage criteria for LVH, the mean aortic valve gradient, the left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and the aortic valve area (AVA) were significantly greater. Fragmented QRS complex in the chest leads was more common in patients with past myocardial infarction, intraventricular block, with PH. Strain pattern was present in 9 (23%) patients, while nonspecific repolarization changes — in 27 (67%) patients. Patients with strain pattern had significantly higher mean pressure gradient and more often had PH. Correlations were found between fQRS-Ta and mean pressure gradient (r=0,39; p=0,005), AVA (r=-0,40; p=0,004), LVMI (r=0,30; p=0,03). The fQRS-Ta was significantly greater in the presence of PH — 128±48o, while without PH — 97±49o (p=0,03).Conclusion. In the studied group of patients with aortic stenosis, intraventricular block, fragmented QRS in the chest leads, strain pattern were more common in the presence of PH. In the presence of voltage criteria for LVH, LVMI, mean pressure gradient were significantly greater, while AVA — lower. The fQRS-Ta was significantly greater in the presence of intraventricular blocks, PH, as well as orrelated with mean pressure gradient and AVA.

Objective: Fragmented QRS (fQRS), as defined by additional spikes in the QRS complex of a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG), is a marker of scarred myocardium. In patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), fQRS is a predictor of heart failure (HF) and other major adverse cardiac events (MACE). The study was aimed to evaluate the role of fQRS in prediction of HF in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: In a prospective, non-randomized, small observational study, we enrolled 188 consecutive patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI. Patients were grouped according to the presence or absence of fQRS and their in-hospital, 1 and 6-month MACE outcomes were assessed. Results: Of the 188 patients, fQRS were noted in 92 (48.94%) patients. Patients with fQRS were more likely to have Killip class II/III/IV. Patients with fQRS had a significantly higher corrected QT interval, lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and higher N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) at 24 hours and 48 hours compared to patients without fQRS. The in-hospital (P=0.001), 30-day (P=0.03) and 6-month (p=0.01) MACE were higher in patients with fQRS. On logistic multiple analysis, fQRS in anterior leads (OR=3.70, CI=1.68-10.02, p=0.001), fQRS in more than 2 leads (OR=5.20, CI=1.51-12.83, p=0.01), NT-proBNP (OR=1.05, CI=1.03-1.08, p=0.02) and Killip class II/III/IV were found to be significant predictors for HF hospitalization. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that fQRS can be a predictor for HF in patients with STEMI and provide a simple and readily available technique for predicting prognosis. Larger studies are required to validate these findings.

Background: In patients with essential hypertension, fragmented QRS has been associated with many remodeling components that might lead to adverse cardiovascular effects. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between fragmented QRS and adverse events and its potential long-term prognostic value. Methods: The patients with essential hypertension were divided into two groups accord- ing to the presence of fragmented QRS: fragmented QRS (+) and fragmented QRS (−). During long-term follow-up, the relationship of fragmented QRS to coronary artery dis-ease, congestive heart failure, stroke, cardiovascular death, all-cause death, and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events was evaluated. Results: The study group included 542 patients with essential hypertension. Fragmented QRS on ECG was observed in 224 (41.3%) patients. Considering the incidence rates at the end of 5.6 +- 1.3 years' follow-up, the total incidence rate of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (P

Abstract Aims/Introduction Diastolic cardiac dysfunction in type 2 diabetes (DD2D) is a critical risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. However, there is no established biomarker to detect DD2D. We aimed to investigate the predictive impact of fragmented QRS (fQRS) on electrocardiography on the existence of DD2D. Materials and Methods We included in‐hospital patients with type 2 diabetes without heart failure symptoms who were admitted to our institution for glycemic management between November 2017 and April 2021. An fQRS was defined as an additional R′ wave or notching/splitting of the S wave in two contiguous electrocardiography leads. DD2D was diagnosed according to the latest guidelines of the American Society of Echocardiography. Results Of 320 participants, 122 patients (38.1%) had fQRS. DD2D was diagnosed in 82 (25.6%). An fQRS was significantly associated with the existence of DD2D (odds ratio 4.37, 95% confidence interval 2.33–8.20; p

Introduction: Heart Failure (HF) is a public health problem in Mexico and worldwide. It is one of the most frequent causes of hospitalization and death in the cardiology and internal medicine departments. Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) has been an effective treatment for selected patients with HF. However, even in patients with class I recommendations, the rate of nonresponse is up to 30%, which makes it necessary to identify predictors of non-response. Objective: to find predictors of non-response to CRT. Material and methods: the electrocardiographic and echocardiographic features of patients who received CRT at ISSEMyM Medical Center of Toluca (IMCT) were analyzed between June 1st 2003, and June 1st 2019. We looked for an association between these features and the response or non-response to CRT one year after the implantation. A sample of 24 patients with a class I recommendation for CRT were studied; a Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of non-response. Results: 62.5% of the patients with a Left Ventricle End-Diastolic Diameter (LVEDD) > 77 mm were non-responders (p=0.003); 75% of the patients with fragmented QRS in the electrocardiogram previous to the CRT were non-responders, although this last result with a non-statistically significant p (0.083). Conclusions: the LVEDD > 77 strongly predicts nonresponse to CRT. As for the fragmented QRS pattern, even when 75% of patients had it were non-responders, a bigger sample might be required to find statistical significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a malignant pulmonary vascular disease primarily caused by increased pulmonary vascular resistance, which leads to right ventricular hypertrophy, fibrosis, right heart failure and death. Fragmented QRS (fQRS) indicates non-homogeneous ventricular activity caused by myocardial fibrosis. This study aims to investigate the importance of fQRS in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) and to determine the role of the presence of fQRS in indicating the severity of the disease. The study included 94 (85 patient group 1 PH and 9 patient group 4 PH) patients. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of fQRS in their surface electrocardiography (ECG). The patients' laboratory, transthoracic echocardiography, and right heart catheterization parameters were compared between the two groups . FQRS was detected in 55 (58%) patients, and the mean age of these patients was 51.8±18.0, and 29.1% of them were male. Systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) measured by transthoracic echocardiography (p<0.001), pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) (p<0.001) and mean, diastolic, systolic PAP (p=0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001) measured by right heart catheterization were found to be higher in patients with fQRS presence in their surface ECGs. Moreover, fQRS was found to be of high significance in predicting PVR. (95% CI 2.147-6.182; p<0.001). In conclusion, when evaluating patients with pulmonary hypertension, it will be helpful in our clinical practice to assume that patients with fQRS on surface ECG are more affected hemodynamically and to start combination therapy early or follow up on these patients at shorter intervals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim– to analyze the relationship between fQRS and myocardial fibrosis in CAD patients using SPECT. Material and methods.Retrospectively, we have analyzed the anamnesis and examinations of 116 patients with suspected coronary heart disease. The fQRS was assessed according to the criteria of Das M. et al., 2006, along with the presence of a pathological Q wave and a slow increase in the amplitude of the R wave. We analysed the transient myocardial ischemia and/or myocardial scarring using stress/rest SPECT with technetium-99m. Results.fQRS was significantly more frequently detected in patients with stable and partially reversible perfusion defects – 44.1% and 52.2%, respectively, versus 13.0% and 5.5% in patients without perfusion defects or with reversible perfusion defects, p 0.05. Among 28 patients with QRS fragmentation and myocardial fibrosis, 19 (67.8%) had classical signs of fibrosis on the ECG, 9 (32.1%) had no ECG-registered fibrosis but fQRS was detected. The sensitivity of fQRS marker in detecting myocardial fibrosis reached 84.4%, the specificity was 63.3%. Conclusion.fQRS complex is an informative marker for detecting myocardial scarring in patients with coronary artery disease. Analysis of fQRS in daily clinical practice may increase the diagnostic value of electrocardiography in the detection of fibrosis.

Acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) still affects people's health due to its high prevalence and high mortality rate. Electrocardiogram (ECG), as a commonly used non-interventional type of examination, has unique pathophysiological and clinical significance. Here we list the significance of QRS wave for early diagnosis and prognostic assessment in STEMI patients, such as QRS duration, QRS-T angle, QRS distortion, fragmented QRS, QRS scores, R wave peak time, triangular QRS-ST-T waveform, QRS low voltage, etc. Some of these metrics are old, such as the QRS score, QRS duration, for which we list the results of recent studies. Some are newer metrics, such as the fragmented QRS, QRS distortion, for which we summarize the results to date. This article aims to highlight its role in diagnosis and prognostic evaluation, guide clinical practice, and provide new ideas for future scientific research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Current ICD recommendations are based on studies which were concluded decades ago. Meanwhile, significant changes have occurred in medical therapy, ICD programming and concomitant comorbidities. As a result incidence of ICD therapies and sudden cardiac death have decreased and significant number of patients undergoing ICD never any appropriate therapy discharged. This study was planned to look for prevalence of appropriate therapy and its predictors. Methods: Study was cross-sectional with retrospective collection of clinical, ECG and echocardiographic parameters from ICD implanted patients for primary prevention at the time of interrogation, which had to be at least of 12 months from device insertion. Appropriate ICD therapies were ascertained. Patients with indications for CRT, pacing and wide QRS patients as well as the familial cardiomyopathies and channelopathies were excluded. Resting ECG parameters analyzed included QTc, Tpeak-Tend, QRSd, fQRS, early repolarization pattern. To predict appropriate ICD therapies multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out with p value <0.05 considered significant. RESULTs: 64 patients were enrolled. 12 patients experienced appropriate therapy while 5 had adverse events related to ICD. QTc, TpTe and fQRS proved to be statistically significant predictors in univariate analysis (p value of 0.04, 0.005, 0.009 respectively). Mult ivariate analysis yield only 2 significant predictors including fQRS with odds ratio of 5.5 (95% CI 1.4-24, p=0.006) and every 10ms increase in TpTe had odds ratio of 1.74 (95% CI 1.21-11.3, p=0.01). ROC curve analysis yielded a cut-off of 103.5ms for optimal prediction of 75% sensitivity and 73% specificity of appropriate therapy by TpTe. Conclusion: Overall, difference between benefit versus risk in a contemporary ICD cohort was narrow. Amongst the various parameters studied only TpTe and fQRS proved to be valuable. Larger prospective cohorts need to be studied for better understanding of variables predicting net ICD benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In primary prevention heart failure patients the 12‑lead electrocardiogram (ECG) may be useful for the prediction of ventricular arrhythmias. However, inter-observer measurement variability first needs to be identified and any software used, validated. To compare manual ECG measures with CalECG software and to assess the reliability of visual recognition of fragmented QRS (fQRS) by advanced cardiology trainees. 30 pre-implant ECGs were assessed on patients who met guidelines for primary prevention Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator. Parameters included RR, PR, QT, QRS duration, axis location, fQRS and T wave peak to T wave end (TpTe). ECGs were analyzed by members of the cardiology department with different levels of experience, and compared to CalECG software. Interobserver agreement was assessed using Fleiss' Kappa (κ) and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was used to compare human and software measures. Strong/very strong correlation was recorded across manual ECG measures (ICC = 0.749–0.979, p ≤ 0.0001) with moderate/strong correlation for TpTe (ICC = 0.547–0.765, p ≤ 0.001). Advanced cardiology trainees demonstrated substantial agreement on ECG interpretation (κ = 0.788, p ≤ 0.0001), however, reliability of fQRS assessment was only moderate for identification (κ = 0.5, p ≤ 0.0001) and fair for location (κ = 0.295, p = 0.001). CalECG software showed strong/very strong correlation with manual measurement for standard measures (r = 0.756–0.977, p ≤ 0.001). Concordance between human and software TpTe measurements varied between leads, with V5 showing a non-significant weak correlation (r = 0.197). CalECG software showed strong/very strong correlation with standard manual measures which affirms its use in ECG analysis. Advanced cardiology trainees showed greater variability in the identification and location of fQRS. • Pre-implant ECG analysis is complex for primary prevention heart failure patients. • CalECG software was validated for traditional ECG measurements. • Cardiology Trainees showed strong inter-observer reliability for standard ECG measures. • Reliability of human identification of novel ECG markers is low. • Software development for accurate identification of fragmented QRS is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Studies suggest that fragmented QRS (fQRS) can predict arrhythmic events in various cardiac diseases. However, the association between fQRS recordings on intracardiac electrogram (EGM) and ventricular arrhythmic events remains unknown. Methods We enrolled 51 patients (age, 62 ± 12 years; 40 men) with an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) and structural heart disease and evaluated surface electrocardiogram (ECG) and EGM measurement of fQRS and the association between fQRS and arrhythmic events. Results fQRS was detected on surface ECG and ICD‐EGM in 12 (23.5%) and 15 (29.4%) patients, respectively. fQRS was detected more frequently on ICD‐EGM in patients with fQRS on surface ECG than in patients without fQRS (7/12 [58.3%] vs 8/39 patients [20.5%], P = .01). Appropriate ICD therapies were documented in 16 patients. Among these patients, fQRS was detected more frequently on surface ECG and ICD‐EGM in patients with appropriate ICD therapies (8/16, 50.0%; P = .001 and 11/16, 68.9%; P

Abstract Aims/Introduction Fragmented QRS (fQRS) on electrocardiography is a marker of myocardial fibrosis and myocardial scar formation. This study aimed to clarify the relationship of fQRS with diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Japanese patients. Materials and Methods Approximately 702 individuals who had a routine health checkup at the Hokuriku Health Service Association (Toyama, Japan) in October 2014 were enrolled and categorized into one of the following four groups based on MetS and diabetes mellitus status: with diabetes mellitus (+) MetS+ (164 participants); diabetes mellitus+ without MetS (Mets−; 103 participants); diabetes mellitus− MetS+ (133 participants); and diabetes mellitus− MetS− (302 participants). fQRS was assessed using the results of electrocardiography. Results The prevalence of fQRS was statistically higher in patients with diabetes mellitus+ MetS+ (37%) and diabetes mellitus+ MetS− (35%), than those with diabetes mellitus− MetS+ (14%) or diabetes mellitus− MetS− (10%; P

Background and aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between ECG findings and blood parameters indicative of inflammation and myocardial injury in COVID-19 patients.

Background and Objectives: Early repolarization pattern (ERP) has recently been shown to be related with an increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias in susceptible individuals. Materials and Methods: We studied the ERP-associated ECG changes, with potential clinical relevance, in 220 young (age 22.1 ± 1.6 years), healthy, male subjects using 12-lead ECG recordings. A total of 38 subjects (17.3%) fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for ERP, and a total of 90 ECG characteristics were compared between the groups of subjects with and without ERP. Results: None of the ECGs were pathological, and 22 ECG parameters differed significantly (p < 0.05) between the subjects with and without ERP. Among them, the P wave-related parameters (e.g., average P wave duration: 101.5 ± 9.2 ms vs. 106.8 ± 9.9 ms, p = 0.004) and the presence of fragmented QRS complexes (67.6% vs. 92.1%, p = 0.002) revealed a potential propensity for atrial and ventricular arrhythmogenesis. The time-domain parameters of repolarization, those not corrected for QRS duration, showed shorter values (e.g., Tpeak-Tend interval: 70.9 ± 8.1 ms vs. 67.8 ± 8.0 ms, p = 0.036), reflecting the accelerated repolarization. Conclusions: Certain ECG characteristics seem to be more associated with ERP. The clinical significance of this finding at the individual level needs further prospective investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fragment FQRS has also been reported in a variety of cardiac conditions such as ischemic and dilated cardiomyopathy, sarcoidosis, myocarditis, arrhythmogenic ventricular dysplasia and Brugada syndrome. FQRS was associated with increased risk of arrhythmic events and was noticed to be associated with lower ejection fraction. The aim of our study was role of Fragmented QRS in Patients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction. Patients and methods: The study was an observational cross-sectional study. It was conducted at the Cardiology Department, Zagazig University Hospitals. The studied sample consisted of 95 patients with diastolic dysfunction. All patients were stratified into two groups according to the presence or absence of fragmented QRS complex in resting surface ECG. Electrocardiogram, conventional echocardiographic examination, tissue doppler imaging and 6 minutes' walk test were done. Results: There was statistically significant difference between 6 minutes' walk test of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction patients with and without FQRS. In addition, we found that 6 minutes' walk test is considered good parameter to discriminate congestive heart failure patients with and without FQRS with sensitivity 81.5%, specificity 69.6% and accuracy 72.9%. Conclusion: FQRS was found to be an independent risk factor for increased cardiac events. FQRS is considered to be an indicator of myocardial fibrosis or scar tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the important causes of mortality. It has been emphasized that the risk of CAD may be increased in the relatives of CAD patients. Fragmented QRS (fQRS) is an electrocardiography (ECG) marker showing myocardial damage. Methods: A study group of 62 symptomatic individuals (31 males, mean age 38.5 ± 7.12 years) with first‐degree relatives with coronary artery disease and 64 healthy volunteers (24 males, mean age 37.9 ± 11.6 years) were included in this study. The study did not include those with known cardiac disease, metabolic disease, or drug use that may cause a change in ECG parameters. Results: There was no significant difference between the groups regarding gender, heart rate, QRS complex, QTc, frontal QRS‐T angle, and left ventricle ejection fraction. Compared to the control group, the QT interval and fQRS count were significantly higher in the study group (p <.05 for both). Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), hemoglobin, and neutrophil counts were significantly higher in the study group compared to the control group (p <.05 for all). Conclusions: Our study showed that fQRS was increased in individuals with symptomatic first‐degree relatives with coronary artery disease compared to healthy volunteers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Evidence of increased mortality in perfusion abnormalities on myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS) can be found. However, electrocardiography (ECG) is a cheaper and more easily accessible examination than MPS. Fragmented QRS (fQRS) is also considered to be associated with mortality in some cardiological diseases. The present study aimed to analyze the relationship between fQRS based on electrocardiography (ECG) and mortality in patients without reversible defects whose fixed hypoperfusion/perfusion defects were diagnosed and associated with myocardial infarction (MI) based on myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS). Methods: Non-ischemic patients (2289 patients) with MI diagnoses based on scintigraphy were selected based on retrospective scintigraphy reports. The presence of fQRS was investigated in 85 patients whose 12-lead electrocardiographs could be accessed from the hospital archive, and their deaths due to all causes were questioned from the death information system. The relationship between left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), fQRS, type of exercise, number of leukocytes, other parameters, and mortality rates was analyzed. Results: The numbers of living (n = 69) and deceased (n = 16) patients were obtained. They were divided into two groups: (1) surviving patients (n = 69, number of fQRS positive 42) and (2) deceased (n = 16, number of fQRS positive 11). No distributional differences were found between mortality rates and fQRS and demographic features between groups (P = 0.558). However, a statistically significant effect was observed between mortality rates and low LVEF levels, pharmacological stress, number of leukocytes, and a low HDL level. Conclusion: The present study suggests that it may be useful to define benign features of fQRS. LVEF levels may be a very important parameter in decision-making for pharmacological stress, and its role in prediction of mortality may be higher than that obtained by fQRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Introduction: Diastolic cardiac dysfunction in type 2 diabetes (DD2D) is a critical risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. However, there is no established biomarker to detect DD2D. We aimed to investigate the predictive impact of fragmented QRS (fQRS) on electrocardiography on the existence of DD2D. Materials and Methods: We included in‐hospital patients with type 2 diabetes without heart failure symptoms who were admitted to our institution for glycemic management between November 2017 and April 2021. An fQRS was defined as an additional R′ wave or notching/splitting of the S wave in two contiguous electrocardiography leads. DD2D was diagnosed according to the latest guidelines of the American Society of Echocardiography. Results: Of 320 participants, 122 patients (38.1%) had fQRS. DD2D was diagnosed in 82 (25.6%). An fQRS was significantly associated with the existence of DD2D (odds ratio 4.37, 95% confidence interval 2.33–8.20; p < 0.0001) adjusted for seven potential confounders. The correlation between DD2D and diabetic microvascular disease was significant only among those with fQRS. Classification and regression tree analysis showed that fQRS was the most relevant optimum split for DD2D. Conclusions: An fQRS might be a simple and promising predictor of the existence of DD2D. The findings should be validated in a larger‐scale cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In patients with essential hypertension, fragmented QRS has been associated with many remodeling components that might lead to adverse cardiovascular effects. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between fragmented QRS and adverse events and its potential long-term prognostic value. Methods: The patients with essential hypertension were divided into two groups according to the presence of fragmented QRS: fragmented QRS (+) and fragmented QRS (-). During long-term follow-up, the relationship of fragmented QRS to coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, stroke, cardiovascular death, all-cause death, and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events was evaluated. Results: The study group included 542 patients with essential hypertension. Fragmented QRS on ECG was observed in 224 (41.3%) patients. Considering the incidence rates at the end of 5.6 ± 1.3 years' follow-up, the total incidence rate of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (P < .001), coronary artery disease (P < .001), and congestive heart failure (P < .001) were higher in patients with fragmented QRS. No significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of stroke (P = .734), cardiovascular death (P = 1), and all-cause death (P = .574). As a result of multiple cox regression analysis, fragmented QRS (P = .005) was identified as an independent predictor for major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events development. Conclusion: In patients with hypertension, the presence of fragmented QRS was found as an independent predictor for major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background It is difficult to evaluate the risk of patients with severe renal dysfunction before surgery due to various limitations despite high postoperative cardiac events. This study aimed to investigate the value of a newly reclassified Revised Cardiac Risk Index (RCRI) that incorporates QRS fragmentation (fQRS) as a predictor of postoperative cardiac events in patients with severe renal dysfunction. Methods Among the patients with severe renal dysfunction, 256 consecutive patients who underwent both a nuclear stress test and noncardiac surgery were evaluated. We reclassified RCRI as fragmented RCRI (FRCRI) by integrating fQRS on electrocardiography. We defined postoperative major adverse cardiac event (MACE) as a composite of cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and pulmonary edema. Results Twenty-eight patients (10.9%) developed postoperative MACE, and this was significantly frequent in patients with myocardial perfusion defect (41.4% vs. 28.0%, p = 0.031). fQRS was observed 84 (32.8%) patients, and it was proven to be an independent predictor of postoperative MACE after adjusting for the RCRI (odds ratio 3.279, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.419–7.580, p = 0.005). Moreover, fQRS had an incremental prognostic value for the RCRI (chi-square = 7.8, p = 0.005), and to the combination of RCRI and age (chi-square = 9.1, p = 0.003). The area under curve for predicting postoperative MACE significantly increased from 0.612 for RCRI to 0.667 for FRCRI (p = 0.027) and 23 patients (32.4%) originally classified as RCRI 2 were reclassified as FRCRI 3. Conclusions A newly reclassified FRCRI that incorporates fQRS, is a valuable predictor of postoperative MACE in patients with severe renal dysfunction undergoing noncardiac surgery.

Abstract Background Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the important causes of mortality. It has been emphasized that the risk of CAD may be increased in the relatives of CAD patients. Fragmented QRS (fQRS) is an electrocardiography (ECG) marker showing myocardial damage. Methods A study group of 62 symptomatic individuals (31 males, mean age 38.5 ± 7.12 years) with first‐degree relatives with coronary artery disease and 64 healthy volunteers (24 males, mean age 37.9 ± 11.6 years) were included in this study. The study did not include those with known cardiac disease, metabolic disease, or drug use that may cause a change in ECG parameters. Results There was no significant difference between the groups regarding gender, heart rate, QRS complex, QTc, frontal QRS‐T angle, and left ventricle ejection fraction. Compared to the control group, the QT interval and fQRS count were significantly higher in the study group (p

Background: The severity of coronary artery lesion is commonly used as a predictor of mortality, major adverse cardiovascular event, and revascularization in coronary artery disease (CAD). Fragmented QRS complex (fQRS) is used as a marker of myocardial ischemia in patients with CAD. The relationship between the two should be studied further. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between fQRS and the severity of coronary lesion in patients with CAD. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital Jakarta. Secondary data were taken from 172 patients with CAD who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) from January to June 2018 with total sampling. Patients were divided into two groups based on the existence of fQRS. Demographic, clinical, and corangiography characteristics (Gensini score, total vascular lesion, and vascular lesion significance) were studied. Data were analyzed using agreement test and chi-square. Results: fQRS was present in 94 subjects (54.6%). Bivariate analysis showed a significant difference between fQRS with mild-moderate Gensini score as well as mild-severe Gensini score (kappa = 0.721 and 0.820; p

Objectives Stiffness of large arteries has been related to cardiovascular mortality. Cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) is a novel marker of arterial stiffness. Herein, we aimed to study the relationship between fragmented QRS (fQRS) in electrocardiogram and CAVI. Methods Asymptomatic patients with fQRS and without fQRS were enrolled in the study consecutively. The fQRS complexes were analyzed in the 12-lead electrocardiogram. Arterial stiffness was assessed by using cardio ankle vascular index (CAVI). It was measured by a VaSera VS-1000 CAVI instrument. Results CAVI values of the patients with fQRS was significantly higher compared to those without fQRS (8.625 (7.9–9.2) versus 6.65 (6.7–8.4) p