In EKG interpretation, what does a "Q" wave represent?

The "Q" wave on an electrocardiogram is a crucial component of the QRS complex, which represents the electrical depolarization of the ventricles of the heart. When it comes to the context of myocardial infarction or necrosis, the presence of a significant Q wave can indicate irreversible damage to the heart muscle, typically as a result of a heart attack.

In the case of myocardial infarction, a Q wave that is deeper and wider than normal may signify that a portion of the heart has undergone necrosis, meaning that the tissue has died due to a lack of blood supply. This is particularly important in diagnosing acute myocardial infarction, as well as in identifying the age and extent of such an infarction based on the characteristics of the Q waves seen on the EKG. Therefore, recognizing abnormal Q waves is a key factor in assessing heart damage and guiding treatment decisions following a cardiac event.