What defines flutter in terms of heart rate?

Flutter, specifically atrial flutter, is characterized by a rapid heart rate, typically occurring at a rate of about 250 to 350 beats per minute. While the exact rates can vary somewhat, heart rates in the upper range are typical for this condition. The defining feature of flutter is its rapid and regular atrial activity.

In contrast to other heart rhythm abnormalities, such as bradycardia (which has a heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute) or normal sinus rhythm (which tends to be between 60 to 100 beats per minute), atrial flutter represents a distinctively high frequency of atrial contractions, often resulting in ventricular rates that can vary depending on the conduction through the AV node. Thus, a heart rate of 200 or more accurately captures the essence of atrial flutter, making it the defining characteristic when differentiating it from other rhythm abnormalities.

Understanding this range is crucial for diagnosing and managing patients with flutter effectively, as it significantly impacts treatment strategies and patient outcomes.