Ventricular flutter
Ventricular Flutter[edit | edit source]
Ventricular flutter is a type of arrhythmia characterized by a rapid and regular heart rhythm originating from the ventricles of the heart. It is considered a serious medical condition that can lead to ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac arrest if not promptly treated.
Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]
Ventricular flutter occurs when there is a rapid reentrant circuit within the ventricles, leading to a heart rate typically between 250 and 350 beats per minute. Unlike ventricular tachycardia, which may have a more organized rhythm, ventricular flutter is more chaotic and can quickly degenerate into ventricular fibrillation.
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
Patients with ventricular flutter may experience symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, syncope, or even loss of consciousness. Due to the rapid heart rate, the heart's ability to pump blood effectively is compromised, leading to decreased cardiac output and potential hemodynamic instability.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The diagnosis of ventricular flutter is typically made using an electrocardiogram (ECG), which shows a characteristic sine wave pattern without distinct QRS complexes or T waves. The ECG is crucial for differentiating ventricular flutter from other types of arrhythmias.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Immediate treatment of ventricular flutter is essential to prevent progression to ventricular fibrillation. The primary treatment is electrical cardioversion, which involves delivering a controlled electrical shock to the heart to restore normal rhythm. In some cases, antiarrhythmic drugs may be used to stabilize the heart rhythm.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for patients with ventricular flutter depends on the underlying cause and the promptness of treatment. If treated quickly, patients can recover without significant complications. However, if left untreated, ventricular flutter can lead to life-threatening conditions such as ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest.
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