Atrial Flutter

Question 1

What is Atrial Flutter?

Answer 1

Caused by underlying aetiology

Question 2

What underlying aetiology can can cause Atrial Flutter?

Answer 2

Scarring
Atrial enlargement
Physiological development

Question 3

How is Atrial flutter recognised?

Answer 3

• Rapid atrial rate (typically around 300bpm)
• ‘saw-toooth presenting P-wave
• Rapid and regular ventricular rate

Question 4

How to calculate the rapid and regular ventricular rate

Answer 4

Calculate the conduction of the ventricles to the atria.

For examples if there are 2 atrial beats (P-waves) to every ventricular beat (QRS) this would be a 2:1 ratio.

Question 5

What leads is Atrial flutter present in?

Answer 5

Typically presents in all leads but scrutinises LII and V1.

Question 6

Signs and symptoms of atrial flutter?

Answer 6

• Tachycardia
• palpitations
• shortness of breath
• fatigue
• chest pain or discomfort
• dizziness
• syncope or pre-syncope

Question 7

significance of Atrial flutter

Answer 7

Atrial flutter will eventually degrade into Atrial fibrillation.