Torsades de Pointes

Question 1

What is Torsades de pointes ?

Answer 1

Form of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia where the rhythm appears to alter in amplitude.

Question 2

How does I recognise Torsades de pointes ?

Answer 2

• Broad QRS complex - duration is greater than 0.12 seconds or > 3 small squares.
• some regularity to the waveform but it oscillates.

Question 3

What leads is Torsades de pointes present in?

Answer 3

All

Question 4

Signs and symptoms of Torsades de pointes?

Answer 4

• Chest pain
• palpitations
• Shock
• Can leaf to cardiac arrest

Question 5

Significance of Torsades de pointes

Answer 5

• Torsades typically will be a transient rhythm, short in duration prior to the patient going into cardiac arrest.