Acute PE — ECG patterns

Ischaemia

Recognition

  • Sinus tachycardia (most common)
  • S1Q3T3 pattern (classic but rare)
  • T-wave inversion V1–V4
  • Incomplete/complete RBBB
  • Right axis deviation
  • P-pulmonale

Key findings

  • Non-specific — normal ECG does not exclude PE

Clinical importance

  • Signs of RV strain (TWI V1–V4, S1Q3T3) predict poor prognosis

Management pearls

  • Risk stratify (PESI, hs-troponin, echo)
  • Anticoagulation ± thrombolysis in massive PE with instability
WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds