The Effect of Hemodialysis on Signal-Averaged Electrocardiography (SAECG) in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease

Shin, Yoon Mi; Kim, Hye Young; Ji, Jeong Hoon; Goo, Ja Chung; Kim, Byeong Uk; Park, Sung Soon; Han, Hae Suk; Kwon, Soon Kil; Kim, Dong Woon

Abstract

BACKGROUND
The presence of late potentials on the signal-averaged electrocardiography (SAECG) is predictive of ventricular tachycardia and sudden cardiac death. We investigated the acute effect of HD on the SAECG in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). METHODS: Twenty HD patients with normal sinus rhythm on a routine ECG were enrolled. SAECGs were recorded immediately before, within 30 minute after, and then 24 hour after the completion of HD. Serum electrolyte, BUN, calcium, echocardiogram and body weight were examined before and after the HD. RESULTS: Positive late potentials on SAECG were detected in 8 patients (40%) before HD, 12 patients (60%) at 30 minute after HD, and 5 patients (25%) at 24 hour after HD. There was a significant change in QRSd (QRS duration) after HD: (110.3+-9.7 msec before HD; 112.3+-9.3 msec at 30 minute after HD; 109.5+-8.6 msec at 24 hour after HD) (p<0.05). The reduction of serum potassium was greater in positive late potential (n=12) than in negative late potential group after HD (n=8) (p<0.05). A significant negative correlation was seen between the changes of dialysis-induced serum total CO2 and QRSd changes (r=-0.534, p<0.05). CONCLUSION: SAECG parameters tended to be aggravated after HD in patient with ESRD. Prolongation of QRSd after HD could be explained by the changes of potassium and bicarbonate.