ECG findings in re-entrant tachycardias

Last reviewed 01/2018

The rhythm is regular and the rate is between 130 and 250 beats per minute.

The QRS complex is narrow unless:

  • there is rate-related bundle branch block
  • there is pre-existing bundle branch block
  • anterograde conduction occurs down an accessory pathway which is distinct from the AV node

P waves:

  • are inverted
  • in AV-nodal re-entry tachycardia may be masked by the QRS complex
  • in AV re-entry tachycardia occur half-way between the QRS complexes
  • there is one P wave for each QRS complex