Prevalence of electromechanical dyssynchrony among heart failure patients in a Nigerian tertiary hospital

Context: Heart failure (HF) is among the most important causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Cardiac dyssynchrony, a situation associated with a difference in the timing of contractions in different chambers and/or segments of the heart, is frequently seen in patients with HF and is a poor prognostic marker if left untreated. There is limited information on the prevalence of dyssynchrony among HF patientsin our environment. Aims: We set out to assess the prevalence of electromechanical dyssynchrony using electrocardiography and echocardiography among HF patients in a Nigerian tertiary hospital. Settings and Design: We conducted a prospective observational study among adult HF patients in our hospital. Methods and Materials: One hundred patients were consecutively recruited and detailed history and examination were done. Electrical and mechanical dyssynchrony were measured using electrocardiography and echocardiography, respectively. Statistical Analysis: Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel 2003 and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 16 software. Results: A total of 100 participants were recruited, 67% were females. The mean age of the study population was 41.95 +/- 16.07 years. Electrical dyssynchrony (QRS >= 120 ms) was found in 11%, interventricular and intraventricular dyssynchrony were seen in 79% and 75%, respectively. There was a significant association between prolonged QRS and intraventricular dyssynchrony, and between inter and intraventricular dyssynchrony. Conclusion: Electromechanical dyssynchrony is prevalent among HF patients in our environment. Larger multicentre studies are needed in our country to fully define the burden of dyssynchrony and study the characteristics of patients with it in order to properly manage them.