Second-degree atrioventricular (AV) block is a type of heart block that occurs when the conduction of electrical signals from the atria to the ventricles is partially impaired. There are two types of second-degree AV block:
- Mobitz type I (Wenckebach) – This type of AV block is characterized by a progressive prolongation of the PR interval (the time it takes for the electrical signal to travel from the atria to the ventricles) until a beat is dropped.
- Mobitz type II – This type of AV block is characterized by a constant PR interval, but some beats are dropped.
The treatment for second-degree AV block depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the block. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary. However, if the heart block is causing symptoms or is associated with an underlying heart condition, treatment may be necessary. Treatment options may include medications to control the heart rate, a pacemaker to regulate the heart rhythm, or surgery to repair the underlying problem.
References:
- Heart block. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-block/symptoms-causes/syc-20350539
- Second-degree atrioventricular block. (2019, October 29). MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000191.htm