Can you diagnose a myocardial infarction on ECG if there is a left bundle branch block LBBB )?

Can you diagnose a myocardial infarction on ECG if there is a left bundle branch block LBBB )?

It is common knowledge that the ECG diagnosis of completed myocardial infarction in the presence of left bundle-branch block (LBBB) is extremely difficult and often impossible. More than 50 rules have been proposed as criteria for interpreting Q-wave equivalents superimposed on the QRS complex in the presence of LBBB.

What ECG finding can be associated with MI myocardial infarction?

The ECG findings of an acute anterior myocardial infarction wall include: ST segment elevation in the anterior leads (V3 and V4) at the J point and sometimes in the septal or lateral leads, depending on the extent of the MI. This ST segment elevation is concave downward and frequently overwhelms the T wave.

Which is the classic ECG changes in MI myocardial infarction?

In a myocardial infarction transmural ischemia develops. In the first hours and days after the onset of a myocardial infarction, several changes can be observed on the ECG. First, large peaked T waves (or hyperacute T waves), then ST elevation, then negative T waves and finally pathologic Q waves develop.

Does LBBB cause ST elevation?

Imitation: left bundle branch block causes secondary ST-T changes, with ST-segment elevations in V1–V2 and ST-segment depressions and T-wave inversions in V5, V6, aVL and I.

Can a mi diagnosis be based on an ECG?

MI Diagnosis in LBBB or paced rhythm. In case of a left bundle branch block (LBBB), infarct diagnosis based on the ECG is difficult. The baseline ST segments and T waves tend to be shifted in a discordant direction with LBBB, which can mask or mimic acute myocardial infarction.

How to diagnose MI in the presence of LBBB?

The most widely accepted tools to aid in the diagnosis of MI in the presence of LBBB are the Sgarbossa criteria. Sgarbossa et al. 1 identified three ECG criteria that may improve the diagnosis of MI in patients with LBBB:

How big can LBBB be on an ECG?

Since LBBB normally produces discordant STE and STD, acute ischemia can be identified by concordant STE, concordant STD anteriorly, or disproportionately discordant STE >5mm [4]:

Can a new LBBB be a sign of myocardial infarction?

A new LBBB is always pathological and can be a sign of myocardial infarction. The criteria (Sgarbossa [1]) that can be used in case of a LBBB and suspicion of infarction are: ST elevation > 5 mm in leads with a negative QRS complex (inappropriate discordance in ST deviation) (score 2).