The full form of VF in ECG is Ventricular Fibrillation.
Understanding Ventricular Fibrillation (VF)
Ventricular fibrillation (VF), often abbreviated as V-fib or VF, is a serious and potentially deadly arrhythmia. It is characterized by an irregular heart rhythm where the ventricles (lower chambers of the heart) beat in an erratic, uncoordinated manner. Instead of contracting in a synchronized way to pump blood effectively, the ventricles quiver or twitch. Consequently, the heart is unable to pump blood to the body, leading to a rapid loss of consciousness and, if untreated, death.
Key Characteristics of VF:
- Erratic Heart Rhythm: The ventricles do not beat normally.
- Quivering or Twitching: The heart muscle moves in a disorganized fashion.
- Ineffective Pumping: The heart cannot effectively pump blood.
- Life-Threatening: Requires immediate medical intervention.
Why is VF dangerous?
Because the heart can't pump blood during VF, vital organs are deprived of oxygen. This can lead to:
- Loss of Consciousness: Occurs rapidly due to lack of blood flow to the brain.
- Brain Damage: Prolonged lack of oxygen can cause irreversible brain damage.
- Cardiac Arrest: If not treated promptly, VF can lead to cardiac arrest and death.
Treatment for VF:
The primary treatment for ventricular fibrillation is defibrillation, which involves delivering an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be performed until a defibrillator is available.
