Atrial flutter is a common type of supraventricular tachycardia, a rapid heart rhythm originating in the upper chambers of the heart.
An ECG of atrial flutter typically shows the following characteristics:
- Distinctive "saw-tooth" pattern of flutter waves (also known as 'F waves') in leads II, III, and aVF caused by the atria contracting at high rates (often around 240-340 bpm).
- The absence of a distinct P wave, as the flutter waves replace them due to rapid atrial contractions.
- A regular ventricular response, which might appear as a 2:1, 3:1, or 4:1 conduction ratio between atrial and ventricular rates.
These key features differentiate atrial flutter from other heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation and arrhythmia, where typical patterns would differ. Atrial flutter particularly does not exhibit the highly irregular RR intervals typical of atrial fibrillation.
In summary, the image provided details components indicative of atrial flutter due to the observable ECG signals, confirming the correct condition among the given options.