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Second (2nd) heart sound (reversed split)

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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In this condition, P2 occurs before A2.

On expiration, A2 is delayed such that it occurs after P2. Inspiration causes P2 to be delayed and the split is diminished.

Possible causes of a delayed A2 include:

  • electrical delay - left bundle branch block
  • systolic hypertension
  • severe aortic stenosis or HOCM
  • patent ductus arteriosus
  • left heart failure

In patients with aortic stenosis, A2 is often very soft or even absent, in such circumstances there appears to be a single component to the second heart sound.

Note that an early P2 may occur in type B Wolff-Parkinson- White syndrome (1).

Reference:

  • Braunwald E. Heart Disease - A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine,WB Saunders.

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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