Left bundle branch block: From cardiac mechanics to clinical and diagnostic challenges

Left bundle branch block (LBBB) results in an altered pattern of left ventricular (LV) activation and subsequent contraction, causing remarkable changes in LV mechanics, perfusion and workload and ultimately leading to pathologic cardiac remodelling. Clinical and diagnostic notions about the LBBB phenomenon had evolved from just an electrocardiographic pattern to a critically important finding affecting diagnostic and clinical management of many patients and adversely influencing their outcomes. Recent advances in imaging techniques significantly improved the assessment of patients with LBBB and provided additional insights into pathophysiological mechanisms of LV remodelling. In the current review we summarized currently available data on the LBBB epidemiology, diagnosis, its impact on clinical management and prognosis, and the role and place of various imaging modalities in assessing cardiac mechanics and perfusion abnormalities, as well as their potential implications for diagnostic and treatment strategies.