Approach to bradyarrhythmias: A proposed algorithm.
10.47102/annals-acadmedsg.2022411
- Author:
Tiong Cheng YEO
1
;
Fang Qin GOH
;
Yao Neng TEO
;
Ching Hui SIA
Author Information
1. Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore.
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- MeSH:
Humans;
Bradycardia/therapy*;
Algorithms;
Diagnosis, Differential;
Electrocardiography
- From:Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore
2023;52(2):96-99
- CountrySingapore
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Bradyarrhythmias are commonly encountered in clinical practice. While there are several electrocardiographic criteria and algorithms for tachyarrhythmias, there is no algorithm for bradyarrhythmias to the best of our knowledge. In this article, we propose a diagnostic algorithm that uses simple concepts: (1) the presence or absence of P waves, (2) the relationship between the number of P waves and QRS complexes, and (3) the regularity of time intervals (PP, PR and RR intervals). We believe this straightforward, stepwise method provides a structured and thorough approach to the wide differential diagnosis of bradyarrhythmias, and in doing so, reduces misdiagnosis and mismanagement.
