Electrocardiography (ECG) is a very easy to perform and very valuable examination method in the context of cardiology. The ECG is of particular importance in the detection of a recent myocardial infarction and cardiac arrhythmias.

THE PROCEDURE

By means of the ECG, the electrical activities of all heart muscle fibers can be derived and displayed as curves.

In the heart there is a special stimulation system, in which the electrical excitation is formed, which is then spread through the stimulation conduction system. These electrical impulses are derived with the help of electrodes (adhesive or suction electrodes).

The electrodes are placed on the arms, legs and chest for this purpose. An ECG machine amplifies these impulses and either displays them as a curve on a screen or prints them out on a strip of paper.

The ECG should be performed in case of:

• chest pain, palpitations, chest tightness, shortness of breath
• Known or suspected diseases of the cardiovascular system, such as coronary heart disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, etc.
• For therapy control (especially with drugs such as tricyclic antidepessants, neuroleptics, digoxin, etc.)
• High-risk patients, sensitive occupational groups (e.g. bus drivers, pilots)
• Preoperatively
• Concomitant diseases, e.g. chronic lung diseases, pericarditis, suspected electrolyte imbalances (especially potassium, calcium)
• Pacemaker therapy

The ECG is used to detect:

• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Cardiac hypertrophy (increase in heart muscle mass and heart weight)
• Heart attack

YOUR BENEFITS

Through the ECG, an existing heart disease can be detected at an early stage and thus be treated in time.