Introduction Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) aims to achieve physiological pacing by capturing the conduction system in the area of the left bundle branch. LBBAP has exclusively been performed using lumen-less pacing leads (LLL) with fixed helix design. This study explores the feasibility, safety and pacing characteristics of LBBAP using stylet-driven leads (SDL) with an extendable helix design. Methods Patients, in which LBBAP was attempted for bradycardia or heart failure pacing indications, were prospectively enrolled at the Ghent University Hospital. LBBAP was attempted with two different systems: 1/ LLL with fixed helix (SelectSecure 3830, Medtronic, Inc) delivered through a preshaped sheath (C315His Medtronic) and 2/ SDL with extendable helix (SoliaS60, Biotronik, SE & CO) delivered through a new delivery sheath (Selectra 3D, Biotronik). Results The study enrolled 50 patients (mean age 7014 years, 44% female). LBBAP with SDL was successful in 20/23 (87%) patients compared to 24/27 (89%) of patients in the LLL group (p=0.834). Screw attempts, screw implant depth, procedural and fluoroscopy times were comparable among both groups. Acute LBBAP thresholds were low and comparable between SDL and LLL (0.50.15V versus 0.40.17V, p=0.251). Pacing thresholds remained low at 32.1 months of follow up in both groups and no lead revisions were necessary. Post procedural echocardiography revealed a septal coronary artery fistula in one patient with SDL LBBAP. Conclusion LBBAP using stylet-driven pacing leads is feasible and yields comparable implant success to LBBAP with lumen-less pacing leads. LBBAP thresholds are low and comparable with both types of leads.
