flutter waves
Characteristic sawtooth-pattern ECG waves seen in atrial flutter, typically occurring at 300 beats per minute.
Full Definition
Flutter waves are the distinctive electrocardiographic manifestation of atrial flutter, appearing as regular, sawtooth-shaped deflections on the ECG baseline, most prominently visible in leads II, III, and aVF. These waves typically occur at a rate of approximately 300 beats per minute and represent rapid, organized atrial depolarization around a reentrant circuit, usually in the right atrium. The ventricular response is usually regular due to consistent AV conduction ratios, commonly 2:1, 3:1, or 4:1, resulting in ventricular rates of 150, 100, or 75 beats per minute respectively. Recognition of flutter waves is crucial for distinguishing atrial flutter from other supraventricular arrhythmias.
Usage
Usage note: Usually written as 'flutter waves' rather than 'Flutter waves' unless beginning a sentence.
In Context
- "Prominent flutter waves were visible in the inferior leads with 2:1 AV conduction." — ECG interpretation
- "Carotid massage temporarily increased AV block, revealing underlying flutter waves." — Clinical assessment