부산대학교 도서관

Experimental and clinical studies performed over the past years have confirmed that electrocardiographic patterns of myocardial repolarisation are closely linked to arrhythmogenesis and may represent a potential tool for arrhythmogenic risk stratification. Recently introduced comprehensive automatic algorithms permit quick and easy assessment of ventricular repolarisation and measurement of its inhomogeneity. However, there continues to be a methodological uncertainty regarding ventricular repolarisation assessment from body surface electrocardiogram. Multiple approaches are currently being investigated for this purpose, indicating that no fully satisfactory method has yet been found. Recently proposed evaluation of QT interval variability during 24-hour Holter recording (QT/RR dynamicity) and beat-to-beat changes in the repolarisation patterns (T wave alternans) based on automatic algorithms may provide a promising tool for better identification of patients at high risk of arrhythmic events. Simultaneous assessment of spatial and dynamic aspects of myocardial repolarisation has become the focus of multiple studies. This complex approach allows not only to identify patients at high risk of arrhythmic events but also to investigate spontaneous or triggered changes in ventricular repolarisation leading to arrhythmias. Recent studies of T wave alternans have documented that repolarisation patterns are closely related to arrhythmic and pro-arrhythmic complications suggesting that an analysis of T and TU wave morphology may play an important role in risk stratification. However, none of the currently available methods fully corresponds to growing clinical demands and advances in experimental electrophysiology, thus indicating that further development of practical approaches to quantitative assessment of ventricular repolarisation is urgently needed.