Ventricular tachycardia: (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) is responsible

Ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) is responsible for most of the sudden cardiac deaths in the United States, [1] at an estimated rate of approximately 300,000 deaths per year. [2, 3] VT refers to any rhythm faster than 100 (or 120) beats/min, with three or more irregular beats in a row, arising distal to the bundle of His. The rhythm may arise from the working ventricular myocardium, the distal conduction system, or both. See the image below. Ventricular tachycardia is ≥ 3 consecutive ventricular beats at a rate ≥ 120 beats/minute. Symptoms depend on duration and vary from none to palpitations to hemodynamic collapse and death. Diagnosis is by electrocardiography. Treatment of more than brief episodes is with cardioversion or antiarrhythmics, depending on symptoms. If necessary, long-term treatment is with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. Learn all about ventricular tachycardia (VT), with emphasis on ECG features, causes, clinical characteristics, differential diagnosis and treatment. Ventricular tachycardia (VT) describes rapid heart rhythms originating from the ventricles. Accurate diagnosis of VT is important to allow prompt referral to specialist services for ongoing management.