Can real-time three-dimensional echocardiography be used reliably for the assessment of left ventricular dyssynchrony?

Abstract

The assessment of LV dyssynchrony through a variety of advanced imaging modalities has garnered substantial interest, as current dyssynchrony markers remain equivocal for predicting response to CRT in patients with advanced heart failure. Current recommendations support the use of CRT in symptomatic patients with moderate-to-severe heart failure, New York Heart Association functional class III or IV, QRS duration greater or equal 120 ms and an ejection fraction less or equal to 35%, who have been optimized with medical therapy. This device-based therapy has important therapeutic benefits, including functional and clinical.