What heart rhythm originates from ectopic pacemaker sites in the atria?

Atrial flutter is the heart rhythm that originates from ectopic pacemaker sites in the atria. In this condition, a single ectopic focus in the atrium initiates rapid electrical impulses that lead to a distinct pattern of atrial contraction, creating a characteristic "sawtooth" appearance on an electrocardiogram (ECG). This can arise from several anatomical and electrophysiological conditions in the heart, often influenced by factors like structural heart disease or increased atrial stretch.

In contrast, normal sinus rhythm is generated by the natural pacemaker of the heart, the sinoatrial (SA) node, which typically produces a steady and regular rhythm. Ventricular tachycardia originates from the ventricles and is not associated with ectopic atrial activity. Atrial fibrillation, while also originating in the atria, is characterized by multiple ectopic foci causing irregular and chaotic electrical activity rather than a single focus as seen in atrial flutter.