The supraventricular tachycardia types ecg
The supraventricular tachycardia types ecg Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) encompasses a group of rapid heart rhythms originating above the ventricles, primarily within the atria or the atrioventricular (AV) node. These arrhythmias are characterized by a sudden onset and termination, often causing palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Proper identification and classification of SVT are crucial for effective management, and electrocardiogram (ECG) plays a central role in this process.
On an ECG, SVT typically presents as a narrow QRS complex tachycardia, generally with a rate exceeding 100 beats per minute, often between 150 and 250 bpm. The key to differentiating types lies in analyzing P wave morphology, PR interval, and the overall pattern of atrial and ventricular activity.
One of the most common types of SVT is Atrial Tachycardia, which originates from a single ectopic focus within the atria. On the ECG, atrial tachycardia features regular rapid atrial activity, with P waves that may differ in shape from sinus P waves and can be hidden within the preceding T wave. The PR interval might be shortened or prolonged depending on the site of origin, but it remains generally regular. Atrial tachycardia can be triggered by structural heart disease or can occur idiopathically. The supraventricular tachycardia types ecg
The supraventricular tachycardia types ecg Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia (AVNRT) is another prevalent type of SVT, accounting for a significant proportion of paroxysmal SVTs. It involves a reentry circuit within or near the AV node. On ECG, AVNRT presents with a sudden onset and termination. The hallmark is a narrow QRS complex tachycardia with absent or inverted P waves, often buried within or just after the QRS complex, making P wave detection challenging. The RP interval (the time from the R wave to the P wave) is usually short, less than 70 milliseconds, which helps distinguish AVNRT from other SVTs.
Atrioventricular Reciprocating Tachycardia (AVRT) involves accessory pathways that create a reentrant circuit between the atria and ventricles. The classic example is Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome. On ECG, AVRT displays a narrow QRS complex tachycardia with a delta wave during sinus rhythm. During episodes, P waves may be absent or appear just after QRS complexes, with a short RP interval. The presence of preexcitation (delta wave) during sinus rhythm is a hallmark of WPW. The supraventricular tachycardia types ecg
Differentiating these SVT types on ECG hinges on analyzing P wave morphology, RP interval, and the presence of preexcitation. For example, in atrial tachycardia, P waves are often abnormal and precede QRS complexes. In AVNRT, P waves may be hidden, and in AVRT, P waves are typically shortly after the QRS. Sometimes, the use of specific maneuvers or pharmacological agents during ECG recording can aid in diagnosis.
Understanding the ECG features of SVT types assists clinicians in choosing appropriate treatment strategies, which may include vagal maneuvers, medications like adenosine, or procedures such as catheter ablation. Accurate classification not only guides immediate management but also informs prognosis and long-term follow-up. The supraventricular tachycardia types ecg
The supraventricular tachycardia types ecg In conclusion, ECG remains an invaluable tool in distinguishing the various types of supraventricular tachycardia. Recognizing subtle differences in wave patterns and intervals enables precise diagnosis, enhancing patient outcomes through targeted therapy.
