10 High-Yield ECG Patterns You Cannot Miss
A practical guide to identifying life-threatening cardiac rhythms under pressure. Complete with visual diagrams and mnemonics.
Electrocardiography (ECG) is one of the most vital diagnostic tools in acute clinical settings. As a medical student or junior doctor, being able to recognize critical ECG patterns can literally save lives. Here are the top high-yield patterns you must commit to memory.
1. Wellens' Syndrome (Type A and B)
Wellens' syndrome is an ECG signature that represents critical stenosis of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery. It's characterized by deeply inverted or biphasic T waves in V2-V3. Patients are typically pain-free at the time of the ECG, but are at high risk for an impending anterior wall MI.
2. Brugada Syndrome
Brugada syndrome is a genetic sodium channelopathy that leads to ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac death. Look for coved ST-segment elevation >2mm in V1-V3 followed by a negative T wave (Type 1), or saddleback pattern (Type 2).