A possible mechanism of abnormal Q waves in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy investigated by model and simulation studies

To understand genesis of abnormal Q waves in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), computer simulation with realistically shaped heart and torso models was conducted based on clinical echocardiogram images and electrocardiograms. Simulated ECGs showing main features of HCM were obtained by assuming random fiber orientations in hypertrophic tissues and by changing other electrophysiologic properties from normal values. This study supports the hypothesis from some pathologic findings that the randomization of hypertrophic tissue orientation may be attributed to the abnormal Q waves in the HCM.