Description

Ventricular standstill is the absence of any ventricular activity for more than a few seconds. There may be atrial activity as evidenced by P waves in which case complete heart block is blocking all impulses from reaching the ventricles and the backup or subsidiary pacemaker has failed, or there may be an absence of atrial and ventricular activity. This is an emergency and requires immediate attention as this rhythm is fatal if a normal rhythm is not restored.

Treatment requires an evaluation of the underlying cause. Medications or a permanent pacemaker may be required.