Left bundle branch pacing in patients with structural heart disease: personalizing cardiac resynchronization therapy
Jacqueline Joza, Justin Luermans, Vartan Mardigyan, Haran Burri, Marek Jastrzębski, Pugazhendhi Vijayaraman, Kevin Vernooy
Abstract
Biventricular pacing remains the cornerstone of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients with heart failure, with well-established benefits. Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) offers a physiologic alternative by engaging the native conduction system to restore synchrony and has generated significant enthusiasm. However, the growing adoption of LBBP should be tempered by recognition that a one-size-fits-all approach may not address the underlying substrate, particularly in those with intraventricular conduction delay. While a less-than-optimal LBBP implant may be sufficient in bradycardia patients, its adequacy in heart failure patients, who may require more precise consideration of conduction disease, remains uncertain. This review gives a comprehensive framework for integrating LBBP into CRT, including pre-implant, intraprocedural, and post-implant assessment. It also provides practical guidance on when to pursue LBBP alone, when to supplement with a coronary sinus lead, and when to consider conventional biventricular pacing, with an emphasis on a personalized approach to the underlying conduction substrate for maximal therapeutic benefit.