Deriving the 12-lead electrocardiogram from four (EASI) electrodes

Computerized interpretation of the electrocardiogram has now advanced to computerization of the electrocardiograph, resulting in greatly increased versatility, including the capacity for adapting to a variety of lead systems rather than being tethered to the old Einthoven-Wilson-Goldberger (EWG) system. Many varieties of display beyond the 12-lead ECG are also available in software. To date, these new and interesting capabilities have scarcely been exploited. The EASI lead system uses the E, A, and I electrode positions of the Frank lead system, plus an electrode, S, positioned over the upper end of the sternum and, if necessary, ground (anywhere convenient). Its outputs form quasi-xyz signals, x'y'z', that can be approximately transformed into xyz signals by means of a matrix derived from the EASI lead vectors. The result forms a good basis for deriving the 12-lead ECG, using previously published coefficients for the Frank lead system. The match with the conventional ECG can then be improved by statistical means. The results are surprisingly good, and certainly of clinical value. Recent widespread interest in silent ischemia and its detection through Holter monitoring suggests an immediate application which has been rendered practical by the recent introduction of three-channel recorders. The EASI electrode positions give technically satisfactory Holter recordings. Very compact three-channel, multiplexed, radio telemetry equipment is now commercially available and provides another application for the EASI 12-lead ECG.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)