ECG (Electrocardiogram)

An ECG is a painless, non-invasive procedure that records the electrical activity of the heart. Small patches called electrodes will be attached to the patient’s arms, legs, and chest. The patches are linked by wires to a machine that transforms the heart's electrical signals into wavy lines, which are often printed on paper. The same test can be performed to monitor changes in the heart while the patient is exercising or is subjected to minimal stress. This type of ECG is often called a stress test.

ECG results can determine:

  • Degree of damage to the heart
  • If the heart is beating normally or fast
  • The effects of drugs or devices used to control the heart (such as a pacemaker)
  • The size and location of your heart chambers