Reversal of ECG limb leads produces classic recognizable patterns that can mimic pathologies such as ectopic atrial rhythm, dextrocardia, or myocardial infarction.
Does intentional misplacement of ECG limb leads alter ECG morphology compared to correct placement in a healthy subject?
Recognition of common ECG limb lead reversal patterns is critical to avoid misdiagnosis of conditions like ectopic atrial rhythm, dextrocardia, or myocardial infarction.
Background: Electrocardiography is a very useful diagnostic tool. However, errors in placement of ECG leads can create artifacts, mimic pathologies, and hinder proper ECG interpretation. This is the second of a two-part series discussing how to recognize and avoid these errors. Methods: 12-lead ECGs were recorded in a single male healthy subject in his mid 20s. Various precordial lead misplacements were compared to ECG recordings from correct lead placement. Results: Precordial misplacements caused classical changes in ECG patterns. Techniques of differentiating these ECG patterns from true pathological findings were described. Conclusion: As in Part I of this series, recognition and interpretation of common ECG placement errors is critical in providing optimal patient care.
Rosen et al. (Wed,) conducted a other in Healthy (ECG lead placement errors) (n=1). Limb lead reversals vs. Correct lead placement was evaluated on ECG pattern changes. Reversal of ECG limb leads produces classic recognizable patterns that can mimic pathologies such as ectopic atrial rhythm, dextrocardia, or myocardial infarction.
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