Common arrhythmias: the importance of ECG interpretation
Abstract
This article describes the importance of electrocardiogram interpretation in relation to some of the more common arrhythmias seen in veterinary practice. It discusses and illustrates those arrhythmias that are life threatening, providing clear explanation as to why they are so dangerous. Other common arrhythmias are explored, which perhaps are less clinically significant, but are nevertheless, seen frequently.
There are a wide range of potential arrhythmias, or heart rhythm disturbances, that are seen in small animal practice. These arrhythmias can occur for many different reasons, and while some have little clinical significance, some can be life threatening. Arrhythmias may be suspected from a patient's history or physical examination, or may occur as a result of anaesthesia, surgery, trauma, or as a result of systemic disease or metabolic problem, such as an electrolyte imbalance. Among the numerous arrhythmias, there are a small number of immediately life threatening ones, which are typically either very fast or very slow.
Before analysis of arrhythmias can begin, it is important to understand what a normal electrocardiogram (ECG) trace looks like, and just as importantly, why it looks that way (Figure 1). The normal, or sinus complex (Figure 2), can be broken in to different components, as each part of the conduction system is activated:
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