Indonesian Journal of Cardiology
Vol 46 No 3 (2025): July - September, 2025

Inverted U wave & de Winter pattern: under-recognized sign of acute coronary occlusion

Maulana, Zaky Faris (Unknown)
Napu, Ramang (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
22 Oct 2025

Abstract

Background: Interpreting ECGs for evidence of ischemia in patients with noticeable changes, such as ST-segment elevation and ST-segment depression, can be easily identified. However, identifying & recognizing atypical ECG patterns of acute coronary syndrome is essential in preventing significant mortality and morbidity. In thefollowing case report, we describe inverted U wave & de Winter pattern. Case Illustration: A 58-year-old male presented to the emergency department with pressure-like chest pain. His initial evaluation revealed normal blood pressure and elevated blood glucose levels, and an initial ECG was incorrectly interpreted as normal. Eight hours later, he returned with worsened chest pain. The new ECG revealed the de Winter ECG pattern, which indicates acute occlusion of the left anterior descending artery. Additionally, previously overlooked inverted U waves in the initial ECG suggested myocardial ischemia.Eventually, the angiography revealed a complete occlusion of the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery. The patient underwent stent placement and have a good outcome Conclusions: Inverted U wave and the de Winter pattern described in this case indicates an acute LAD occlusion. It’s a rare finding, but it is critical for emergency physicians to recognize it for urgent reperfusion therapy. Unfamiliarity with these high-risk ECG pattern may lead to delays in appropriate treatment, causing negative effects on morbidity and mortality.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijc

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology

Description

Indonesian Journal of Cardiology (IJC) is a peer-reviewed and open-access journal established by Indonesian Heart Association (IHA)/Perhimpunan Dokter Spesialis Kardiovaskular Indonesia (PERKI) [www.inaheart.org] on the year 1979. This journal is published to meet the needs of physicians and other ...