ECG
Also written as: ECG — Electrocardiogram
Electrocardiogram; a diagnostic test recording electrical activity of the heart.
Full Definition
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that records the electrical activity of the heart through electrodes placed on the skin. The resulting trace shows the depolarization and repolarization of cardiac chambers, allowing detection of arrhythmias, ischemia, conduction abnormalities, and structural heart disease. Standard 12-lead ECGs provide views of the heart from multiple angles, enabling localization of cardiac abnormalities. ECG interpretation requires understanding of normal wave morphology, intervals, and lead-specific patterns.
Usage
Usage note: ECG is preferred over EKG in most international contexts; avoid confusion with echocardiogram.
In Context
- "The ECG showed ST-elevation in leads II, III, and aVF consistent with inferior wall infarction." — Emergency medicine report
- "Serial ECGs should be obtained to monitor for evolving ischemic changes." — Clinical protocol