What is the significance of a T Wave in an EKG?

The significance of a T wave in an EKG lies in its representation of ventricular repolarization. During the cardiac cycle, after ventricles contract and eject blood into the arteries (a process known as ventricular depolarization, which is reflected by the QRS complex on an EKG), the heart muscles need to reset themselves electrically to prepare for the next contraction. This resetting process is known as repolarization, which is crucial for the normal rhythm and function of the heart.

The T wave visually represents this phase on the EKG, showing the recovery of the ventricles' electrical state prior to the next heartbeat. It is important for maintaining the heart’s electrical stability and preventing conditions like arrhythmias that can arise from improper repolarization processes. Thus, understanding the T wave's role is critical in interpreting an EKG and assessing cardiac health.