12-Channel ECG

What is ECG?

After initial examination, if necessary, cardiologists usually recommend a test called ECG or electrocardiography. Some also refer to it as EKG.

It is a non-invasive test, meaning there is no need to cut or insert anything into the patient’s body.

The test takes about five minutes. It helps to assess whether the heart is working in its normal rhythm, the position of the heart, if any part of the heart muscle has thickened, if any part has been damaged, or if there is any abnormality in blood flow. This is done by observing the heart’s electrical activity.

The result or report of the ECG test is produced in the form of a graph on paper. Modern ECG machines also display this graph instantly on a screen.

By looking at this graph, doctors can determine if the patient has had a heart attack, if there are signs of harmful levels of electrolytes such as potassium, calcium, magnesium in the blood, or if high blood pressure has caused any harmful effects.

For the test, the patient lies flat on a bed, and electrodes (electric sensors) are attached to two hands, two feet, and six specific locations near the heart. Special gel is often applied to the skin to increase conductivity.

The test is completely painless and requires no special preparation. However, if a man has excessive chest hair, shaving may be needed to improve electrical conductivity.

ECG is done not only for patients complaining of chest pain or shortness of breath but also as part of preoperative preparation for elderly patients. It is also a routine part of health checkups.

After the ECG, based on the patient’s condition, doctors may recommend further tests such as stress tests (ETT), echocardiography, and angiography.