Final answer:
Persistent ST segment elevation and deep Q waves following a myocardial infarction are suggestive of a ventricular aneurysm. These ECG changes are indicators of structural heart damage after an MI.
Step-by-step explanation:
Persistent ST segment elevation after a recent myocardial infarction (MI) along with deep Q waves in the same leads typically suggests structural changes in the ventricle related to the infarction. The correct answer to the question posed by the student is (b) Ventricular aneurysm. This condition can occur after an area of the heart wall becomes weakened following an MI and results in an outpouching of the ventricular wall. Certain ECG abnormalities are key in identifying heart conditions such as ventricular aneurysm. For example, enlarged Q waves may signal a MI, and persistent elevation of the ST segment can indicate an acute MI and, over time, a ventricular aneurysm.