Acquiring the Right Type of ECG Machine

The process of recording and interpreting electrocardiograms (ECGs) is paramount for arriving at a precise diagnosis and later prognosis. The initial evaluation of cardiac distress must be equally swift and accurate. Since the ECG machine is the gold standard for such analyses, it naturally follows that many forms of acquisition and devices are available for it.

The varying levels of function and accuracy of ECG machines depend on their application:

The Resting ECG

The Resting ECG takes about 5 minutes and requires no prior preparation. The apparatus consists of a 12-lead ECG machine that connects electrodes to the limbs and chest of a ‘resting’ patient, obtaining simultaneous readings and a 3D depiction of cardiac activity. It clinically tests for cardiac irregularities such as ischemia and hypertrophy, or risk of relapse of previous conditions.

Ambulatory (Holter) ECGs

Ambulatory (Holter) ECGs require one to ‘wear’ a peripheral monitoring device for at least a 24 hour period while pursuing normal activities. The device is painless – albeit somewhat bothersome – and is commonly used to monitor intermittent conditions such as arrhythmia and bradycardia.

Cardiac stress-test

The cardiac stress test may be administered following a resting ECG, under an attending physician, for a more comprehensive diagnosis. It subjects the patient to rigorous physical activity for 15-30 minutes via stationary cycling or treadmilling. It monitors blood pressure rates and the heart’s ability to adapt to continual strain. These may be used to assess safe levels of stress following infarction or cardiac surgery.

Although the ECG machine remains a staple part of the general health check-up, modern advancements have seen a surge in the efficient application of the ambulatory (Holter) ECG machines for unmonitored/remote use.

However, these methods of ECG acquisition are limited in providing information since they employ a mere 2-3 lead system which is both inaccurate and insufficient for a timely diagnosis. Even in a clinical setting, the sequential use of a 1-lead ECG machine to obtain synchronous ECG readings is simply too inefficient. These issues are resolved simply by the application of a 12-lead ECG machine – including lack of specificity and potentially fatal false-negatives.

Time is essential during primary diagnosis and ECG readings should be obtained and evaluated with the highest accuracy and efficiency. The greatest detail in acquisitions with the least number of problems is offered singly by the 12-lead ECG machine. It is thereby, the device of choice when it comes to monitoring cardiac irregularities.

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