[Late ventricular potentials after myocardial infarction]

Late potentials in the QRS complex can be detected with signal-averaged electrocardiography and are associated with delayed and disorganized ventricular activation. This article reviews the technique, describes the pathophysiological basis of late potentials, and assesses the prognostic value of late potentials for subsequent development of ventricular tachyarrhythmias and sudden cardiac death in postmyocardial infarction patients.