Ventricular fibrillation

From MedRevise
(Redirected from VF)
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Definition

The ventricular muscle fibres contract randomly causing a complete failure of ventricular function.

Epidemiology

Common.jpg

Mostly occurs in those with pre-existing disease, particularly those with coronary heart disease. It is the most common arrhythmias in patients with a cardiac arrest. Peak incidence in 45-75 years.

Pathophysiology

Nobody's really sure exactly what happens but it usually occurs during a heart attack. Probably something to do with bad stuff happening to the heart resulting in it going out of whack and the ventricles randomly and ineffectively contracting. Or something.

Risk Factors

Clinical Features

Generally, they're having an MI so you get: chest pain, fatigue, palpitations. Commonly, a known diagnosis of pre-existing disease, particularly cardiac problems: CAD, cardiomyopathy, valvular heart disease, myocarditis, congenital heart disease and WPW.

Investigations

ECG

Ventricular fibrillation on ECG. If you see this, do something.

Most important investigation (and general thing to do) when suspecting somebody of having VF.

After the fact, look for: evidence of MI (ST elevation/depression, T wave inversion), prolonged QT interval, short PR, WPW.

Bloods

Management

See advanced life support.

Prognosis