S2

Medical abbreviation · Cardiology

S2
Stands forSecond heart sound
CategoriesMedical

S2 stands for Second heart sound, a cardiology abbreviation.

The "dub" of the heartbeat, produced by closure of the aortic and pulmonary valves at the end of systole and best heard at the base of the heart. It normally splits during inspiration as the pulmonary component is delayed.

Example: Fixed split S2 in a young adult with exertional dyspnea; echo to evaluate for ASD.

Usage notes

Fixed splitting suggests an atrial septal defect, wide splitting suggests RBBB or pulmonary stenosis, and paradoxical splitting (narrowing with inspiration) suggests LBBB or severe aortic stenosis. A loud pulmonary component (P2) points to pulmonary hypertension. In anatomy S2 is the second sacral vertebra.

More cardiology abbreviations

  • RVH – Right ventricular hypertrophy
  • RVR – Rapid ventricular response
  • RVSP – Right ventricular systolic pressure
  • RWMA – Regional wall motion abnormality
  • S-ICD – Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
  • S1 – First heart sound
  • S3 – Third heart sound
  • S4 – Fourth heart sound
  • SA – Sinoatrial
  • SAVR – Surgical aortic valve replacement
  • SBE – Subacute bacterial endocarditis
  • SBP – Systolic blood pressure

See all 229 cardiology abbreviations →

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.