Computer versus manual measurement of ST-segment deviation

Total ST scores (sum of absolute deviations in all 12 electrocardiographic [ECG] leads) have been used for research purposes to estimate total ischemic burden and to predict reperfusion after thrombolytic therapy. Computerized monitoring systems are capable of measuring ST deviation to the 10-microV level, whereas humans are incapable of such precise resolution. The purpose of this study was to compare computer versus manual ST scores in 12-lead ECGs exhibiting ischemia and to compare interrater reliability of manual measurements between two experts. A total of 58 subjects with 100 microV or more ST deviation in one or more leads during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty balloon inflation were selected for analysis. ST measurements were made at J + 80 ms, using the isoelectric line as a reference, and summed across all 12 leads. Manual measurements were made to a minimum of 50 microV by two independent reviewers blinded to the computer scores. Total ST scores were compared using paired t-tests, and Pearson coefficients were used to test the correlations. A high correlation was observed between the manual and computer measurements (r = .96, P < .00) and between the two reviewers (r = .96, P < .00). A high degree of interrater reliability is possible with manual measurements of ST deviation. Computer measurements are consistently greater than manual measurements, presumably because humans "round down" to the nearest 50 microV. As such, computers may detect ischemia that is missed by humans. However, computer and manual measurements of ST deviation should not be mixed when used as a variable for research.