What is a common atrial rate in atrial flutter?

In atrial flutter, the atrial rate is typically characterized by a rapid and regular rhythm, often ranging from 240 to 300 beats per minute. This is a result of a reentrant circuit within the atrium, which causes the atria to fire at a high frequency while the ventricular response can vary based on conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node.

The high rate in atrial flutter is distinct from the normal electrical activity of the heart, where atrial rates are generally slower. In normal sinus rhythm, a common atrial rate falls within 60-100 beats per minute. The rates of 100-150 bpm and 50-70 bpm do not accurately represent the typical findings in atrial flutter, as they either suggest a faster or slower rhythm that is not characteristic of this specific arrhythmia. Thus, the 240-300 bpm range is consistent with the usual atrial activity seen in atrial flutter episodes.