Electrocardiography - EKG

Table of contents:

Electrocardiography - EKG
Electrocardiography - EKG

Video: Electrocardiography - EKG

Video: Electrocardiography - EKG
Video: Electrocardiography (ECG/EKG) - basics 2024, March
Anonim

Electrocardiography (EKG)

Electrocardiography is a technique used to record the electrical activity of the heart. The resulting curve is called an electrocardiogram (EKG). The movements of the heart muscle during its pumping function are controlled by electrical impulses. These impulses come from a central point in the heart, the sinus node, and are transmitted to the heart muscle cells via an electrical conduction system. By attaching electrodes to the surface of the skin, these electrical impulses can be recorded.

navigation

  • Continue reading
  • more on the subject
  • Advice, downloads & tools
  • When is an EKG necessary?
  • What preparations are required?
  • How is the examination performed?
  • What are the side effects / complications?
  • Where is an EKG performed?
  • How are the costs going to be covered?

When is an EKG necessary?

Electrocardiography is a painless, inexpensive examination method that is available almost everywhere and can be used to diagnose numerous diseases of the heart. An EKG provides valuable information on:

  • Cardiac arrhythmias,
  • Heart attack,
  • Checking of pacemakers,
  • Thickening of the heart wall,
  • Inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) and the pericardium (pericarditis).

Note Before a planned anesthesia, an ECG is routinely performed as part of the preoperative diagnosis from a certain age.

What preparations are required?

No preparation is required for an EKG. However, the patient should tell the doctor what medication he / she is taking, as some drugs affect the heart's activity.

How is the examination performed?

Recording an ECG only takes a few minutes and is completely painless. Electrodes (leads), which are connected to the recording device by cables, are attached to the surface of the skin. For better transmission of the electronic impulses, the skin areas are wetted with a contact spray. Typically ten lead electrodes are attached, one each to the wrists and ankles and six to the chest area. The EKG is recorded while lying down. During the exposure, the patient should breathe relaxed and not move.

What are the side effects / complications?

Electrocardiography is completely painless and free of side effects.

Where is an EKG performed?

The recording of an EKG is possible in the hospital as well as in the private practice. In most cases, the examination itself is carried out by the nursing staff or medical assistants. The attending physician evaluates the ECG.

How are the costs going to be covered?

The costs for an EKG will be covered by your health insurance provider if you are suspected of being ill. Referral or referral is required for hospital examinations; this is usually valid for one month from the date of issue.