What is a significant characteristic of Ventricular Tachycardia?

A significant characteristic of Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) is the presence of a regular rhythm with a wide QRS complex. VT typically arises from ectopic ventricular foci, resulting in a heart rate that usually exceeds 100 beats per minute and is often quite regular. The wide QRS complexes are a hallmark of this arrhythmia because they reflect that the impulse is originating in the ventricles and is not conducted through the normal conduction pathways. This leads to a slower depolarization of the ventricles compared to normal sinus conduction, which is why the QRS complexes are broader than the usual narrow complexes seen in supraventricular rhythms.

The regularity of the rhythm is also an important diagnostic clue; VT often maintains a consistent rhythm, unlike other forms of tachycardia that might be irregular. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for health professionals in diagnosing and appropriately managing the condition.