Impact of Q-wave regression on clinical outcomes after primary percutaneous coronary intervention in anterior STEMI: A case series

Abstract

BackgroundAbnormal Q-waves have long been regarded in the international literature as hallmark indicators of myocardium necrosis, reflecting its extent and serving as long term markers of poor prognosis in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). While some reports suggest that the disappearance of Q-waves is associated with limited myocardial necrosis and a reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), contemporary data on the resolution of these Q-waves following AMI revascularization and their relationship with long term clinical outcomes remain scarce. This study aims to evaluate the impact of abnormal Q-waves regression after successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on clinical outcomes. ResultsA total of 68 patients who presented with acute anterior STEMI and were managed by primary PCI were included in this study. Of these, 25 (37 %) exhibited abnormal Q-waves disappearance within the first year succeeding PCI. Age, gender, and the number of risk factors of cardiovascular disease did not predict Q-waves regression. However, early PCI significantly impacted Q-waves disappearance (p < 0.05). Patients who experienced Q-wave regression had fewer clinical complications and demonstrated a significant increase in Left Ventricle Ejection Fraction (LVEF) over time compared to those with persistent Q-waves (9 % vs 3 %, p < 0.05). ConclusionsIn a cohort of patients with acute AMI, the disappearance of Q-waves is correlated with increased LVEF and is linked to reduced morbimortality.