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Artefactual spikes in electrocardiography: a worthwhile introspection
Monika Moni1, Jay Rajda, Umashankar Lakshmanadoss
1Clinical Research Branch, Laboratory of Cardiovascular Sciences, National Institute on Aging/NIH, Baltimore, USA.
Singapore Medical Journal
|March 7, 2013
Summary
External electrical devices can interfere with electrocardiography (ECG) readings, mimicking heart rhythm issues. Identifying and removing these electrical interference sources is crucial for accurate ECG interpretation.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Clinical Electrophysiology
Background:
- Electrical devices are ubiquitous and can inadvertently affect cardiovascular monitoring.
- Electrocardiography (ECG) is vital for diagnosing heart conditions but susceptible to external electrical interference.
- Such interference can mimic genuine cardiac arrhythmias, complicating diagnosis.
Observation:
- A case study involving a patient with an implanted bladder stimulator revealed significant electrical interference on their ECG.
- The interference patterns observed were not indicative of intrinsic cardiac electrical activity.
- The bladder stimulator was identified as the source of the artifactual ECG signals.
Findings:
- External electrical sources, including implanted medical devices, can generate artifacts in ECG recordings.
- These artifacts can be mistaken for true cardiac rhythm disturbances if not properly identified.
- The specific case demonstrated how a bladder stimulator caused ECG abnormalities.
Implications:
- Accurate ECG interpretation requires careful consideration and identification of potential external electrical interference.
- Prompt localization and elimination of interference sources are essential for correct diagnosis and patient management.
- Awareness of such interference is critical for healthcare professionals interpreting ECGs, especially in patients with implanted electronic devices.
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