What does ventricular tachycardia look like on an ECG?

As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can provide you with a detailed description of what ventricular tachycardia (VT) looks like on an electrocardiogram (ECG). Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) on an ECG is characterized by several key features: 1. Wide QRS Complex: The QRS complex, which represents the ventricular depolarization, is wider than 120 milliseconds. This is because the ventricles are contracting in a disorganized manner rather than the normal, synchronized contraction. 2. Rate: The heart rate is typically greater than 100 beats per minute, which is faster than the normal heart rate. 3. Regular Rhythm: The rhythm is regular, meaning that the intervals between successive QRS complexes are consistent. 4. No P Waves: In VT, the atria are often not in control of the heart rate, so P waves, which represent atrial depolarization, may be absent or may be seen as small, distorted signals that are not clearly defined and are often buried within the QRS complex. 5. QRS Morphology: The shape of the QRS complex can vary depending on the origin of the VT within the ventricles. It can be monomorphic, where the QRS complexes all look the same, or polymorphic, where the QRS complexes vary in shape. 6. Duration: The duration of the tachycardia episode can vary, but it is generally sustained, lasting longer than 30 seconds. It's important to note that VT can be life-threatening, especially if it degenerates into ventricular fibrillation, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.

Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) ECG Review. Ventricular tachycardia refers to a wide QRS complex heart rhythm �� that is, a QRS duration beyond 120 milliseconds �� originating in the ventricles at a rate of greater than 100 beats per minute. ... You can find links to many more examples of VT at the bottom of this review.