Prognostic value of aVR lead and the well-known risk factors in acute ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction

Abstract

Objective: The present study was designed to analyse the effect of ST segment changes in aVR lead and the well-known risk factors in ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 250 patients who were admitted between 2009 and 2010 with STEMI and mm ST-segment elevation in aVR lead were enrolled in the study. The patients were followed for life-threatening events like acute pulmonary oedema, atrial fibrillation, AV block, ventricular tachycardia, length of stay in hospital and death. Results: Among the enrolled patients, 222 were discharged and 28 died. Pulmonary oedema and mortality rates were significantly higher in patients with ST-segment elevation in aVR lead (both p=0.001). Conclusions: There is a correlation of ST-segment elevation in aVR lead with poor outcome in STEMI. Therefore aVR lead must be analysed as well as the other leads and well-known risk factors while it estimates the prognosis. (Hong Kong j.emerg.med. 2011;18:287-293)