What does the T wave in an ECG indicate?

The T wave in an ECG represents ventricular repolarization, which is a critical phase in the cardiac cycle. During this phase, the ventricles of the heart recover from the electrical activity that causes contraction (depolarization) and prepare for the next heartbeat. The T wave reflects the return to a resting state of the cardiac muscle cells following their contraction, allowing the heart to reset for the subsequent cycle.

Understanding the significance of the T wave is essential for recognizing various cardiac conditions. For instance, abnormalities in the T wave can indicate issues such as electrolyte imbalances, ischemia, or other cardiac conditions that might affect the heart's rhythm and function.

This comprehensive view of the T wave helps illustrate the importance of monitoring ECG readings in clinical practice. Recognizing that it signifies repolarization underscores its role in determining normal heart function and identifying potential cardiac problems.