What is the hallmark ECG finding in ventricular tachycardia?

The hallmark ECG finding in ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a series of wide QRS complexes at a rapid rate. This characteristic appearance is due to the origin of the electrical impulses in the ventricles themselves, rather than from the atria, leading to a slower and broader ventricular depolarization than seen in normal sinus rhythm. In VT, the QRS complexes are typically greater than 120 milliseconds in width and can appear to be of uniform morphology, indicating a reentrant or focal origin in the ventricular tissue.

Understanding the significance of the wide QRS complexes is crucial. In a normal sinus rhythm, the QRS is typically narrow due to the coordinated conduction through the heart’s conduction system. The rapid heart rate in VT, often exceeding 100 beats per minute, combined with the wide QRS complexes, provides a clear indication of this potentially life-threatening arrhythmia. Recognizing these patterns is essential for timely intervention, as VT can lead to more serious conditions like ventricular fibrillation if not promptly managed.

The other options, while associated with various cardiac conditions, do not specifically identify ventricular tachycardia. Normal sinus rhythm pertains to a healthy heart rhythm pattern. Deep T wave inversions and ST segment depression are more commonly associated