Evaluation of Cardio Electrophysiologic Balance Index in Myocardial Infarction with ST Segment Elevation

Background Index of cardio electrophysiologic balance (iCEB) obtained from ECG (electrocardiogram) is used as a potential estimator of ventricular fibrillation (VF) in various clinical conditions. However, this index has not been evaluated in ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). This paper evaluates basal iCEB values in STEMI patients and its potential for estimating VF development. Methods 173 patients with STEMI, including 132, who were stable and 41 patients with VF in acute setting were scanned retrospectively. After assessment of demographic variables and medical history, acute presentation ECGs were evaluated for iCEB. Values obtained from stable STEMI group were recorded and compared to the results of previous studies with known control group values. In addition, VF + and - groups were also compared by iCEB results. Results 39 out of 173 patients (22.5%) were female. Median age was 58 and 54 for VF (-) and (+) groups respectively. iCEB in electrically stable STEMI patients was similar or slightly increased than general population with a mean of 4.56±0.79. VF (+) group had more chronic renal disease (9.8% vs. 2.3%, p = 0.034). Angiography results showed CX was less likely identified as the culprit lesion in VF (+) group (2.4% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.040). iCEB measurements were found similar between groups (4.56±0.79 vs. 4.60±0.90, p = 0.749). Conclusions In this study, we observed that iCEB values of stable STEMI patients were similar to previous studies, establishing an iCEB base for the STEMI population. Additionally, VF development is not linked to iCEB, therefore cannot be used as a predictor in emergency setting.