ventricular arrhythmia
Abnormal heart rhythms originating from the ventricles, ranging from PVCs to life-threatening VT/VF.
Full Definition
A broad category of cardiac rhythm disturbances that originate below the atrioventricular node in the ventricular myocardium. These arrhythmias range from benign premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) to life-threatening ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF). In cardiac anesthesia, ventricular arrhythmias are common due to myocardial irritability from surgical manipulation, electrolyte imbalances, ischemia, or reperfusion. Management strategies include antiarrhythmic medications, electrolyte correction, and electrical cardioversion or defibrillation when hemodynamically significant.
Usage
Usage note: Specify type (PVC, VT, VF) and hemodynamic significance when documented.
In Context
- "Frequent ventricular arrhythmias occurred during myocardial manipulation requiring lidocaine infusion." — Operative report
- "The patient experienced ventricular arrhythmias that responded to magnesium replacement." — ICU note