ventricular fibrillation
A life-threatening arrhythmia characterized by chaotic, ineffective ventricular contractions that prevent blood circulation.
Full Definition
Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is the most serious cardiac arrhythmia, characterized by rapid, disorganized electrical activity in the ventricles that results in ineffective heart contractions and cardiac arrest. The ECG shows irregular, chaotic waveforms without identifiable QRS complexes, P waves, or T waves. VF prevents effective blood circulation and leads to immediate loss of consciousness and death within minutes if not treated. The only effective treatment is immediate electrical defibrillation followed by advanced cardiac life support. VF is often preceded by ventricular tachycardia and is a common cause of sudden cardiac death.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as VF; distinguished from atrial fibrillation by ventricular origin.
In Context
- "The patient developed ventricular fibrillation requiring immediate defibrillation." — Cardiac arrest documentation
- "The ICD successfully terminated ventricular fibrillation with a 30-joule shock." — Device interrogation report