Factors of Importance for QRS Complex Recovery after Acute Myocardial Infarction

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Abstract
The regression of the ECG signs of myocardial infarction was studied in 101 patients. A significant increase in R wave amplitude and decrease in Q wave depth on the standard ECG was observed over 3 mo. In 21% of the patients, Q waves disappeared completely. In inferior infarction, these changes were more apparent in the lateral V leads than in the inferior limb leads. Patients with intraventricular conduction defects were excluded. Two factors associated with the Q and R wave changes have been identified. Lower heart rates appeared to facilitate the recovery of R waves, and smaller infarcts, as assessed by peak LDH, showed greater ECG recovery. Modification of the heart rate may favorably affect the healing process after an acute myocardial infarction.