An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a graphic recording of the changes occurring in the electrical potentials between different sites on the skin (leads) as a result of cardiac activity. Depolarization of the cardiac cells is the central electrical event of the heart. This occurs when the cardiac cells, which are electrically polarized, lose their internal negativity. Depolarization is distributed from cell to cell, producing a wave of depolarization that can be transmitted across the entire heart. This wave represents a flow of electricity and it can be detected by electrodes placed on the surface of the body. Once depolarization is complete, the cardiac cells are able to restore their resting polarity through a process called repolarization. This flow of electricity can also be sensed by recording electrodes.
One common placement of the electrodes is based on Einthoven’s triangle, which is an imaginary triangle drawn around the volume of the heart. Each apex of the triangle represents where the body’s composition, around the heart, connects electrically with the limbs. Einthoven’s law states that if the values for any two points of the triangle are known, the third can be computed.
This Application Note details 1-lead ECG, 3-lead ECG, 6-lead ECG, and 12-lead ECG.
See also: Continuous 12-lead ECG – App Note #AH-206
The NICO Smart Amplifier is specifically designed to measure thoracic impedance for performing noninvasive cardiac output measurements. The amplifier terminates in two connectors for impedance (Z) and its derivative (dZ), and has a 3 m cable that connects directly to an AMI100D Amplifier Input Module. Use with EL526 strip electrodes and CBL246 adapter or with EL500 […]
View AllThe autonomic nervous system (ANS) is responsible for regulating the functions of all the body’s organs. Take a look at this month’s citations to see how to apply BIOPAC’s tools and learn techniques for ANS research… Comparable responses to a wide range of olfactory stimulation in women and men. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 9059. Lillqvist, M., Claeson, […]
BIOPAC’s comprehensive Introductory ECG Guide addresses fundamental to advanced concerns to optimize electrocardiography data recording and analysis. Topics include: ECG Complex; Electrical and Mechanical Sequence of a Heartbeat; Systole and Diastole; Configurations for Lead I, Lead II, Lead III, 6-lead ECG, 12-lead ECG, precordial leads; Ventricular Late Potentials (VLPs); ECG Measurement Tools; Automated Analysis Routines for extracting, […]
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