What EKG changes are typically seen in a patient with a left ventricular aneurysm following a myocardial infarction?

In patients with a left ventricular aneurysm following a myocardial infarction, the typical EKG changes include the presence of QS waves and persistent ST elevation. The development of a left ventricular aneurysm often occurs after a significant and prolonged ischemic event, like a myocardial infarction, when the heart muscle becomes weakened and bulges during contraction.

The QS wave represents a lack of electrical activity in the affected area of the myocardium, and the persistent ST elevation reflects ongoing pathology in that region, indicating that the necrotic myocardial tissue has not healed adequately. This pattern is distinctive and contrasts with normal EKG findings or changes associated with other cardiac conditions.

While normal sinus rhythm is certainly possible, it does not specifically indicate the presence of a left ventricular aneurysm. Disorganized conduction and prolonged QT interval can be associated with other cardiac conditions or electrolyte imbalances but are not characteristic of a left ventricular aneurysm. Therefore, the combination of QS waves and persistent ST elevation is a hallmark of this condition following myocardial infarction.