Analysis and Dispersion of QT, JT and Tpeak-Tend Intervals in Elite Female Water Polo Players

Abstract

Background

The physiology of water polo has been difficult to study due to the characteristics of the game in the field of play. Little is known about cardiac electrophysiology in these athletes, particularly in women. The electrocardiographic findings in elite water polo athletes have been rarely studied.

^Objectives

To analyze the ventricular repolarization in female water polo players from the Cuba’s National Preliminary Squad.

Material and Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in a sample of two groups of women, one with 20 athletes and another with 20 healthy non-athletes. The electrocardiographic parameters of ventricular repolarization were compared in both groups.

Results

Mean age was 22.45±5.30 years vs. 22.45±5.30 years; p >0.05. Weight was greater in athletes compared to non-athletes (69.63±7.73 kg vs. 51.20±6.63 kg; p <0.001). Mean duration of sporting practice was 13.5 years. There were no significant differences in QTc and JTc intervals in lead DII between both groups, yet the intervals measured in lead V5 were longer in athletes (QTc: 405 ms vs. 424 ms; p <0.05 - JTc: 307 ms vs. 329 ms; p <0.05). QT interval dispersion was greater in athletes compared to non-athletes (74 ms vs. 43 ms; p <0.001). Tpeak-Tend interval was greater in athletes in leads V1 (64 ms vs. 81 ms; p <0.05), V3 (78 ms vs. 92 ms; p< 0.05), V4 (72 ms vs. 83 ms; p <0.05) and V5 (63 ms vs. 80 ms; p <0.05).

Conclusions

QTc and JTc intervals and QT interval dispersion were significantly greater in athletes. Tpeak-Tend interval was significantly greater in athletes in leads V1, V3, V4 and V5; Tpeak-Tend interval dispersion was greater, though not statistically significant in athletes.