Fine detail in body surface potential maps: accuracy of maps using a limited lead array and spatial and temporal data representation

In order to evaluate the accuracy with which a limited lead array can be used to estimate fine details of the thoracic distribution of cardiac potentials, we compared 192-lead body surface maps and those constructed using a subset of 32 leads. We also evaluated preservation of detail in body surface maps reconstructed following spatial and temporal data representation, a method proposed for quantitative comparison of maps. Maps were analyzed with respect to four previously reported normal map features recorded with extensive lead arrays. The maps constructed from 32 leads accurately reproduced all map features with 92% or greater accuracy. Maps constructed after spatial and temporal data representation had a reproduction accuracy of 93% and 98% respectively for two map features more than 100 microV in amplitude but accuracy with respect to the two map features less than 100 microV in amplitude was 86% and 59% respectively. The study demonstrates that a selected limited lead array permits accurate estimation of the body surface distribution of cardiac potentials even when potentials are low level or occur in regions not directly sampled by a recording electrode. To represent potentials of less than 100 microV, more coefficients would be required to permit accurate spatial and temporal representation.