Bazett's Formula:
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The Bazett formula is used to calculate the corrected QT interval (QTc) which accounts for variations in heart rate. It standardizes the QT interval to a heart rate of 60 beats per minute for better comparison across different heart rates.
The calculator uses Bazett's formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula corrects the QT interval for heart rate by dividing by the square root of the RR interval (in seconds).
Details: QTc calculation is essential for detecting prolonged QT intervals which can indicate increased risk of life-threatening arrhythmias such as torsades de pointes. It's used in cardiac risk assessment and medication monitoring.
Tips: Enter QT interval in milliseconds and heart rate in beats per minute. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the corrected QT interval.
Q1: What is a normal QTc value?
A: Normal QTc values are typically <440 ms for men and <460 ms for women. Values above these may indicate prolonged QT syndrome.
Q2: Why is QTc correction important?
A: The QT interval naturally shortens with faster heart rates and lengthens with slower rates. Correction allows comparison of QT intervals at different heart rates.
Q3: Are there limitations to Bazett's formula?
A: Yes, Bazett's formula tends to overcorrect at high heart rates and undercorrect at low heart rates. Other formulas (Fridericia, Framingham) may be preferred in certain situations.
Q4: When should QTc be measured?
A: QTc should be measured in patients taking medications that may prolong QT interval, in those with syncope or family history of sudden cardiac death, and in routine ECG interpretation.
Q5: How is the RR interval calculated?
A: The RR interval in seconds is calculated as 60 divided by the heart rate (in beats per minute).