Which type of heart block is also referred to as 'Wenkebach'?

Wenkebach refers specifically to Type 1 second-degree heart block, which is characterized by a progressive lengthening of the PR interval until one P wave fails to conduct to the ventricles. This phenomenon demonstrates a specific pattern on an ECG where there is a regular occurrence of dropped beats after a series of conducted beats. The underlying mechanism often involves a dysfunction in the AV node, leading to an intermittent block in the conduction pathway.

This type of block can often be transient and may not require treatment unless it is symptomatic. Understanding this classification is important in telemetry as it helps in identifying the conduction system's pathology in patients and deciding on the appropriate management strategies.