QT-Dispersion as a potential marker in prognosis of acute myocardial infarction

Introduction: QT dispersion in a 12 lead ECG represents the heterogeneity of ventricular repolarization. The prolongation of QT-interval dispersion increases the risk of coronary heart disease, ventricular arrhythmia, and sudden cardiac death in patients with myocardial infarction. We aimed to investigate the prognostic value of QT-dispersion in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Methods: A total number of 79 patients with acute myocardial infarction and 21 healthy controls were recruited. The QT-dispersion was estimated using a 12-lead surface electrocardiogram, 24 hours and 4-6 days after myocardial infarction. Results: In patient group, the average QT-dispersion was 92.8±42.2 ms and 80.3±33.4 ms after 24 hours and four days respectively whereas in control group it was 47.1±16.8 ms (p<0.001). The relative frequency of arrhythmia in patients was 24%. Our study showed that the average of QT- dispersion of arrhythmia in patients was significantly different and higher (p<0.05) compared to patients without arrhythmia. Conclusion: We showed that increased QT-dispersion is a potential marker in prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction.