An Atrioventricular block (AV block) is a condition where the electrical signals that control the beating of the heart are disrupted as they pass from the atria to the ventricles. Normally, the sinoatrial node (SA node) initiates the heartbeat and sends signals through the heart's conduction system, ensuring that the atria and ventricles contract in a coordinated manner. However, with an AV block, there is an impairment in this conduction process. AV blocks are classified into three degrees of severity: 1. First-degree AV block: There is a delay in the electrical signal as it travels from the atria to the ventricles, but every signal eventually gets through. 2. Second-degree AV block: Some of the electrical signals do not reach the ventricles, leading to skipped heartbeats. 3. Third-degree AV block: Also known as complete heart block, where no electrical signals from the atria are conducted to the ventricles, and the ventricles beat independently of the atria, often at a slower rate. read more >>

Atrioventricular block (AV block) is a type of heart block in which the conduction between the atria and ventricles of the heart is impaired. Under normal conditions, the sinoatrial node (SA node) in the atria sets the pace for the heart, and these impulses travel down to the ventricles.read more >>