QRSrytm

QRSrytm is a term used in cardiology to describe the ventricular rhythm as represented by the QRS complexes on an electrocardiogram (ECG). It reflects how often and in what pattern the ventricles depolarize, and is determined by the heart’s conduction system. A regular QRSrytm typically indicates stable ventricular activation through the His-Purkinje network.

In a healthy adult, the most common QRSrytm is sinus rhythm, with regular R-R intervals and narrow QRS complexes, usually with a duration under 120 milliseconds. The heart rate sets the pace of the rhythm, while the morphology of the QRS complexes informs about the sequence of ventricular activation.

Abnormal QRSrytm can arise from conduction disturbances or ectopic foci. A prolonged QRS duration (>120 ms) suggests aberrant conduction, such as bundle branch blocks, ventricular pre-excitation, or ectopic ventricular activity. Wide, irregular QRS rhythms may indicate ventricular tachycardia or other arrhythmias, whereas narrow but irregular QRS can occur in atrial fibrillation with variable ventricular response.

Clinicians assess QRSrytm from the ECG to diagnose arrhythmias, conduction disorders, and ventricular ectopy. The QRS morphology and axis provide additional information about the origin and path of ventricular activation, aiding in treatment decisions and prognosis.

The term QRSrytm appears in some languages to denote this aspect of rhythm; in English-language literature the concept is typically described as QRS rhythm or ventricular rhythm in reference to the QRS complex.