- Importance of ECG (EKG).

Importance of ECG (EKG).

• The Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a graph that records the electrical activity of the heart.
• The ECG records these electrical cardiac currents (voltages,potentials) by means of metal electrodes placed on the surface of the body.

ECG an important tool used for support of diagnosis and treatment of various cardiac and other related diseases:

1. May be the first indicator of ischemia and help in proper use of thrombolysis in treating ischemia.
2. Help in diagnosis of the cause of the chest pain.
3. Help in diagnosis of the cause of the dysnea.
4. Help in diagnosis of electrolyte disturbances.
5. Help in diagnosis of Adverse drug effects.
6. Help in diagnosis of structural changes of the heart.
7. Identify a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia.
8. Pinpoint the chronic effects of sustained hypertension or the acute effects of a massive pulmonary embolus. 

 Dr Ibrahim samaha

 References:-

1. Clinical electrocardiography a simplified approach 7th ed,Ary L.Goldberger, CH1,P.g 3.
2. ECG made easy, John R.Hampton 7th ed,CH1, p.g 2.
3. Cardiology essentials,Teresa Holler,CH2, P.g. 19.
4. Only EKG Book You'll Ever Need,Thaler, Malcolm S., The 5th Edition p.g.5