Description

ECG

What is an ECG?

It is a device that graphically records the electrical
activity of the heart (the rhythm of the heart, its frequency, the rhythm of
the heartbeat, its spread, and the disappearance of the reaction) through
electrodes attached to the skin.

Electrocardiography (ECG) is an examination method based on
printing on millimetric paper the contraction and relaxation phases of the
atria and ventricles of the heart, the electrical activity that occurs during
the stimulation of the heart and the transmission of the stimulus. It is a
picture of the electrical map of the heart. In addition, information about
the shape of the heart can be obtained with ECG. The recordings of the ECG
device are called electrocardiograms.

What is an ECG used for?

•  Electrocardiography is one of the most important methods used to
evaluate the function of the heart. It directly shows the way the heart
muscle contracts.
• With  ECG, rhythm and conduction disorders of the heart can be determined.
•  Coronary insufficiency or infarction can be diagnosed.
•  Findings of thickening of the heart walls and enlargement of the
heart cavities may be detected.
• The  functions of the electronic pacemaker can be evaluated.
• The  effects of some heart medications, electrolyte imbalance
(especially serum potassium deficiency or excess)
• The  effects of non-cardiac diseases on the heart can be investigated.
ECG is an examination method that takes 5-10 minutes on average.

How is an ECG test done?

The ECG device can be easily carried anywhere, so the examination can be done
anywhere. There is no need for special preparation of the patient for ECG
recording. It is not a painful or uncomfortable procedure for the patient. During
the ECG recording, the patient lies on the examination table or on the back in
the bed. Jewelry should be removed from the patient’s neck, arm, and
wrists. The patient’s upper waist area, wrists and ankles should be
opened. If stockings are present, they should be removed or stripped to
expose the ankles. Electrode discs are placed on the arms, legs and
anterior chest. Special ECG gel or alcohol cotton can be applied between
the skin and the electrodes for better recording. The patient should not
move or talk during the acquisition. ECG is usually taken within 5-10
minutes. It is completely painless. Electrodes or conductive gel may
feel cold when first used. Redness or mild pain may be felt in the places
where the electrodes are placed.

There is no risk with ECG recording. This test is a
completely safe test. The device records the electrical activity of the
heart. No electrical stimulation is sent from the device to the patient.