EKG

EKG

A transthoracic interpretation of the electrical activity of the heart over the period of time is called an Electrocardiogram. The electrical activity of the heart is detected by electrodes attached to the surface of the skin and recorded by a device external to the body. An electrocardiogram is the recording produced by this noninvasive procedure.

To measure the hearts electrical conduction system, an electrocardiogram is used. Electrical impulses generated by the polarization and depolarization of cardiac tissue and translated into a waveform is picked up by an electrocardiogram. To measure the rate and regularity of heartbeats the waveform is used. The waveform also measures the size and position of the chambers as well as the presence of any damage to the heart and the effects of drugs or devices used to regulate the heart such as a pacemaker.

Electrocardiograms are mostly performed for diagnostic or research purposes on human hearts. They may be performed on animals as well. Electrocardiograms are usually used for diagnosis of heart abnormalities or research.