What is the nodal rhythm?

Hello, I'm an expert in cardiology with a focus on rhythm disturbances. I'd be happy to explain what a nodal rhythm is. A nodal rhythm is a term used to describe the electrical activity of the heart that originates from the atrioventricular (AV) node, which is a small structure located in the lower part of the heart's atria and is responsible for regulating the heart's rate. The AV node acts as a relay station for electrical impulses, ensuring that the impulses are conducted to the ventricles in a controlled manner. There are a few types of nodal rhythms: 1. Normal Sinus Rhythm: This is the most common and healthy rhythm, where the electrical impulses start in the sinus node (the heart's natural pacemaker), and then they travel to the AV node before reaching the ventricles. 2. AV Nodal (or Junctional) Rhythm: This occurs when the electrical impulses originate within the AV node itself, rather than the sinus node. This can happen due to various reasons such as digitalis toxicity, inferior wall myocardial infarction, or other conditions that affect the heart's electrical conduction system. 3. Accelerated AV Nodal Rhythm: This is a faster version of the AV nodal rhythm, typically with a rate above 100 beats per minute. 4. AV Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia (AVNRT): This is a type of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) where there is a reentry circuit within or near the AV node, causing a rapid heart rate. It's important to note that while a nodal rhythm can be normal, any deviation from the normal sinus rhythm should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

The cardiac rhythm that results when the heart is controlled by the atrioventricular node in which the impulse arises in the atrioventricular node, ascends to the atria, and descends to the ventricles more or less simultaneously. Also called A-V nodal rhythm , nodal bradycardia , nodal rhythm .