Electrocardiogram (EKG)

What Is an Electrocardiogram (EKG)?

An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is a test that helps to diagnose heart conditions by monitoring the heart’s electrical activity.  The positioning of the electrical sensing devices (leads) plays an important role in gathering data that may reveal characteristic patterns linked with various heart conditions.  The test may be part of a routine physical exam or part of an evaluation of various cardiac-related symptoms.   

The doctor attaches the electrocardiogram (EKG) leads with suction caps, Velcro straps, or adhesive patches to the patient’s arms, legs, and to 6 pre-defined positions on the chest.  Anesthesia is not necessary for an electrocardiogram (EKG), which is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure.  Some male patients may need to shave off a small section of chest hair for optimal contact between the leads and their skin.  Applying a bit of gel to the skin enables easier transmission of the heart’s electrical impulses to the EKG leads.  The entire procedure takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete.  Patients can usually leave the hospital immediately thereafter and resume normal activities in accordance with their doctor’s instructions, depending on the results of the test.   

The electrocardiogram (EKG) may reveal non-specific patterns that could relate to a variety of conditions.  In these cases, the patient’s other symptoms and the results of related tests are taken into account prior to diagnosing their condition.  In other cases, EKG results may appear normal despite an underlying condition if the patient is not symptomatic at the time of the test.  Such conditions may only become apparent during an exercise stress test.