What does the R wave indicate in an ECG?

The R wave is a crucial component of the QRS complex in an electrocardiogram (ECG), which primarily represents the depolarization of the ventricles. When the ventricles depolarize, they prepare to contract and pump blood out of the heart. The R wave is specifically the positive deflection that occurs after the Q wave and before the S wave, and it indicates the spread of electrical activity through the ventricles.

Understanding the significance of the R wave is vital for assessing cardiac function and diagnosing various cardiac conditions. If the R wave is altered in amplitude or duration, it can suggest issues such as ventricular hypertrophy or conduction delays. Thus, the indication of ventricular depolarization is central to analyzing the heart's electrical activity and overall health.