What is the range for the ventricular rate in atrial flutter?

In atrial flutter, the characteristic feature is the rapid firing of impulses from the atria, leading to a typical atrial rate that ranges from 250 to 350 beats per minute. However, the ventricular rate can vary based on the conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node. In many cases, especially if there is some degree of block at the AV node, the ventricular rate can indeed be below the atrial rate. This results in a ventricular response that may be slower, reflecting why the ventricular rate is often observed to be less than the atrial rate.

Understanding the dynamics of atrial flutter is crucial; as the atria flutter at such high rates, not all impulses may be conducted to the ventricles. Hence, while the atrial rate will be high, the ventricular rate may be lower, depending on the degree of AV nodal conduction. The consistent relationship between the two rates is essential when interpreting an ECG and aids in diagnosing the condition accurately.