UHF-ECG for Assessing Capture in Left Bundle Branch Area Pacing
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Ultra-High Frequency Electrocardiography for Assessing Capture of the Left Bundle Branch Versus the Left Ventricular Septum in Left Bundle Branch Area Pacing
IRAS ID
353148
Contact name
Bradley Burton
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Newcastle University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 10 months, 9 days
Research summary
Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) is a type of pacemaker aimed at activating part of the heart’s natural electrical system, rather than just heart muscle. This type of pacemaker sends rapid signals around the main pumping chamber of the heart. By doing this we can potentially improve the heart’s pumping function, which can reduce symptoms like breathlessness.
However, determining whether the pacemaker is activating the electrical system is challenging. We currently use 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG), using stickers on the chest to record the heart’s electrics. The ECG criteria are hard to measure and relies on manual measurement. New ultra-high frequency ECG (UHF-ECG) devices act as 12-lead ECGs but provide more precise and automatic assessment. So, using UHF-ECG may make it easier to determine which part of the heart the pacemaker activates.
This study will recruit 120 patients with these types of pacemakers to find out if UHF-ECG can be used to confirm that the pacemaker has activated the correct area. Participants will attend normal device follow-up clinic with normal device checks. We will perform up to two UHF-ECGs in addition.
We will use the UHF-ECG and normal 12-lead ECG data for the study. The UHF-ECG data will not alter the patient’s clinical care.
REC name
London - Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/0405
Date of REC Opinion
1 May 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion