Type 1 second degree AV block is also known as?

• A. Wenkebach
• B. Mobitz 2
• C. Complete block
• D. Fixed rate mode

Answer: (A)

Type 1 second degree AV block is commonly referred to as Wenkebach, named after the physician who first described the phenomenon. In Wenkebach, there is a progressive prolongation of the PR interval until a QRS complex is dropped. This pattern of progressively longer PR intervals followed by a failure to conduct the impulse (resulting in a missed heartbeat) is characteristic of this type of block.

Understanding this specific behavior helps differentiate Wenkebach from other forms of heart block. For instance, Mobitz 2, which is another type of second-degree AV block, does not exhibit the progressive prolongation and instead has a consistent PR interval with sudden drops of QRS complexes. Complete block (or third-degree AV block) involves a complete dissociation between atrial and ventricular activity, which is more severe. Fixed rate mode typically refers to specific pacing rhythm settings and does not relate to AV block classifications.

Thus, recognizing Wenkebach as Type 1 second-degree AV block is crucial in cardiac telemetry, as it allows for proper diagnosis and management of patients with this arrhythmia.