Interventricular dyssynchrony

Interventricular dyssynchrony is a medical condition characterized by the uncoordinated contraction of the ventricles of the heart. This condition is often associated with heart failure and can significantly impact the efficiency of the heart's pumping action.

Overview

Interventricular dyssynchrony is a subtype of cardiac dyssynchrony, which refers to the lack of coordinated contraction of the heart muscle. In the case of interventricular dyssynchrony, the dyssynchrony occurs between the two ventricles, the main pumping chambers of the heart. This can lead to inefficient pumping of blood, which can in turn lead to symptoms of heart failure.

Causes

Interventricular dyssynchrony can be caused by a variety of conditions, including coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, and conduction system disease. These conditions can disrupt the normal electrical signals that coordinate the contraction of the heart muscle, leading to dyssynchrony.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of interventricular dyssynchrony typically involves the use of imaging techniques such as echocardiography or cardiac MRI. These techniques can visualize the movement of the heart muscle and identify areas of dyssynchrony.

Treatment

Treatment for interventricular dyssynchrony often involves addressing the underlying cause of the dyssynchrony. This can include treatments for coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, or conduction system disease. In some cases, a procedure known as cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) may be used. CRT involves the implantation of a device that sends electrical signals to the heart muscle to help coordinate its contractions.

See also

• Cardiac resynchronization therapy
• Heart failure
• Cardiomyopathy
• Coronary artery disease