Final answer:
WPW syndrome EKG findings include a delta wave leading to a short PR interval and broad QRS complex, which can elevate heart rate. Anesthetic management requires careful monitoring due to arrhythmia risks, with antiarrhythmic drugs prescribed for rate control, avoiding AV nodal blockers like digoxin.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering WPW (Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome) or pre-excitation syndrome, there are several key aspects to consider. The EKG findings in WPW include the presence of a delta wave, which indicates early ventricular depolarization and results in a short PR interval followed by a broad QRS complex. This abnormal electrical pattern can increase the frequency between the QRS complexes and potentially elevate the heart rate (pulse). As for anesthetic considerations, careful monitoring during surgery is imperative, as patients with WPW are at risk for arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation, which can degenerate into ventricular fibrillation under stress. Lastly, medications used to control heart rate in WPW typically include antiarrhythmic drugs; however, some medications, like digoxin and other AV nodal blocking agents, should be avoided as they can exacerbate the condition by preferentially blocking the normal conduction pathway and leaving the accessory pathway unopposed.