ventricular tachycardia
Rapid heart rhythm originating from the ventricles, typically defined as ≥3 consecutive ventricular beats at rate >100 bpm.
Full Definition
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia characterized by three or more consecutive ventricular beats at a rate typically exceeding 100 beats per minute. VT can be sustained (>30 seconds) or non-sustained (<30 seconds), and monomorphic (consistent QRS morphology) or polymorphic (varying QRS morphology). The arrhythmia may occur in structurally normal hearts or in the setting of cardiomyopathy, ischemic heart disease, or inherited conditions. Hemodynamically unstable VT requires immediate cardioversion, while stable VT may be treated with antiarrhythmic medications. Recurrent VT often necessitates electrophysiology study and consideration for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator placement.
Usage
Usage note: Specify sustained vs. non-sustained and monomorphic vs. polymorphic when relevant.
In Context
- "The patient experienced recurrent episodes of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia on telemetry monitoring." — Cardiac monitoring report
- "Amiodarone was administered for hemodynamically stable monomorphic ventricular tachycardia." — Emergency department treatment note