What does the "S1Q3T3" pattern suggest?

The "S1Q3T3" pattern observed on an EKG is considered a classic sign that suggests the presence of a possible pulmonary embolism. This pattern is characterized by the presence of an S wave in lead I, a Q wave in lead III, and an inverted T wave in lead III. These changes occur due to the right heart strain caused by the obstruction of blood flow through the pulmonary arteries, which can happen when a blood clot travels to the lungs.

In the case of pulmonary embolism, the increased pressure in the right ventricle leads to these characteristic alterations in the EKG, aiding in the diagnosis of this potentially life-threatening condition. Recognizing the S1Q3T3 pattern is crucial for healthcare providers, as timely intervention can significantly impact patient outcomes.

For the other options, they refer to different cardiac conditions with distinct EKG manifestations. Myocardial infarction is typically identified by ST-segment changes and T-wave inversions that reflect heart muscle damage rather than the specific S1Q3T3 pattern. Ventricular hypertrophy shows increased voltage and secondary repolarization abnormalities on the EKG, and it does not exhibit the specific S1Q3T3 pattern. Atrial flutter is characterized by