Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia with a prevalence of 1-2% in Canada.1 On an ECG, AF is recognized by an irregularly irregular rhythm lacking p waves (Figure 1). In addition to the clinical and pathophysiological pattern, AF can be categorized as “valvular AF” (VAF) or “nonvalvular AF” (NVAF). While there are varying definitions for VAF, it is usually restricted to AF in the presence of a mechanical heart valve, moderate …
Pacemaker Essentials: Complications You Must Know
Like all good trilogies, this too, must end. After a long hiatus due to budget negotiations, studio restrictions, and transitioning into staff-hood, it is time we discuss some of the complications that you may see from our pesky pacemakers in the emergency department (ED). Before we begin, please review the prequels if you haven’t already. Check out Part 1, “Pacemaker Essentials: What we need to know in the ED” and Part 2, “Pacemaker …
Pacemaker Essentials: How to Interpret a Pacemaker ECG
View PostPacemaker Essentials: What we need to know in the ED
Who knew a pacemaker could cause so much grief (to the physician, not the patient)? Join me on my journey to understand this troublesome little box and what pacemaker essentials the emergency physician ought to know.