A Simple Diagnostic Sign in Ventricular Tachycardia

Abstract

THE diagnosis of ventricular tachycardia without retrograde activation of the atrium is dependent upon the location of regular atrial activity that is independent of the faster ventricular rate. The electrocardiogram provides the best method for the detection of independent atrial activity, but it is well known that the electrocardiographic diagnosis of ventricular tachycardia is sometimes difficult, particularly in an emergency situation. There are the detection of independent atrial activity at the bedside. When identified in a patient with tachycardia, it therefore strongly supports a ventricular rather than a supraventricular source for the arrhythmia.ObservationsThe possibility of detecting independent atrial . . .