What is a junctional rhythm ECG? It is a type of cardiac rhythm disturbance that originates from the AV node. This type of arrhythmia is relatively rare, accounting for only about 2% of all cases of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). This article will discuss the basics of junctional rhythm ECG, including what it looks like on an ECG and how to interpret it. We will also discuss some of the potential causes and treatment options for this condition.
The Basics
Junctional rhythm ECG is a cardiac arrhythmia originating from the AV node. This type of arrhythmia is relatively rare, accounting for only about two percent of all cases of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). The term “junctional” refers to the fact that this rhythm disturbance originates in the atrioventricular (AV) node, which is located in the heart’s electrical conduction system between the atria and ventricles. On an electrocardiogram (ECG), junctional rhythm appears as a regular, narrow complex tachycardia with a rate of 60-100 beats per minute (bpm). Junctional rhythm is usually not a cause for concern and does not require treatment. However, in some cases, junctional rhythm can be a sign of an underlying heart condition that needs to be treated. For example, if the junctional rhythm is accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, it may be a sign of myocardial infarction (heart attack) or congestive heart failure. If you experience any symptoms while junctional rhythm is present, you must see a doctor immediately.
How to Interpret Junctional Rhythm on an ECG
When interpreting an ECG tracing, there are three main things that need to be looked at: the P wave, QRS complex, and T wave. The P wave represents atrial depolarization and should be upright in leads I, II, aVF, and Vthree. If the P wave is inverted in these leads, it may be indicative of junctional rhythm. The QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization and should be less than 0.12 seconds in duration. If the QRS complex is wider than this, it may be indicative of junctional rhythm. The T wave represents ventricular repolarization and should be positive in leads I, II, Vthree, aVF, and Vsix. If the T wave is inverted in these leads, it may indicate junctional rhythm.
Junctional rhythm is a type of arrhythmia that occurs when the heart’s natural pacemaker, the sinoatrial node, fails to function correctly. When this happens, another pacemaker located in the atrioventricular node takes over. This can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.
