Ventricular premature beats

Ventricular premature beats, also called ventricular extrasystoles (VES) are a form of ventricular arrhythmia caused by ectopic foci in the ventricles. They are relatively common and rarely cause symptoms. On the ECG they’re characterised by wide QRS and the lack of a preceding P wave.

Asymptomatic persons don’t require treatment. Symptomatic persons and persons with many VES and underlying heart disease should receive antiarrhythmic treatment to prevent sudden cardiac death. Beta blockers and amiodarone can be used.