Electrocardiography (ECG) in Kharkiv — Comprehensive Heart Function Assessment
Electrocardiography (ECG) is a fundamental, non-invasive diagnostic procedure that records the electrical activity of the heart. This fast, painless, and highly informative examination provides critical information about heart rhythm, rate, and electrical conductivity, serving as a primary screening tool for cardiovascular health and a key diagnostic method for cardiac diseases.
Key Advantages of ECG at Brigid Center
Non-Invasive and Painless
No needles or radiation — a completely safe procedure suitable for patients of all ages.
Rapid Procedure
The full recording takes only 5–10 minutes from electrode placement to completion.
Instant Results
Preliminary interpretation is available immediately; a detailed report is prepared within minutes.
Comprehensive Screening
Detects a wide range of cardiac anomalies — from rhythm disturbances to signs of ischemia.
High Diagnostic Value
The gold standard for diagnosing arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and conduction disorders.
Repeatability and Comparability
Can be performed multiple times to monitor disease progression or treatment effectiveness.
What is Electrocardiography (ECG)?
An ECG is a graphic recording of the electrical impulses generated by the heart during each cardiac cycle. These signals are captured by electrodes placed on the skin and recorded as waveforms on paper or in a digital format. An ECG provides data on:
- Heart Rate: How fast the heart is beating.
- Heart Rhythm: The regularity and pattern of heartbeats.
- Electrical Conductivity: How impulses travel through the heart's conduction system.
- Chamber Size: Indirect information about enlargement or thickening of the chamber walls.
- Myocardial Damage: Signs of current or previously suffered heart attacks.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: Effects of abnormal levels of potassium, calcium, or magnesium on heart function.
When is an ECG Recommended?
Common Symptoms Requiring ECG Evaluation:
- Chest Pain or Discomfort (angina, sensation of pressure or tightness).
- Palpitations (sensation of skipped beats, fluttering, or forceful beats).
- Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea) at rest or during physical exertion.
- Dizziness, Lightheadedness, or Loss of Consciousness (syncope).
- Unexplained Fatigue or sudden pronounced weakness.
- Edema (swelling of legs, ankles, or feet), which may indicate heart failure.
- Rapid, Slow, or Irregular Pulse detected by a physician.
- Heart Murmurs identified during a physical examination.
Routine Screening and Monitoring:
- Preoperative Evaluation before surgery or invasive procedures.
- Annual Check-ups for adults over 40 or individuals with risk factors.
- Sports Clearance for professional athletes and amateurs.
- Occupational Requirements for specific professions (pilots, drivers, firefighters).
- Medication Monitoring for drugs affecting heart rhythm (antiarrhythmics, psychotropics).
- Chronic Disease Management in patients with hypertension, diabetes, or kidney disease.
Diagnostic and Emergency Applications:
- Suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome (Myocardial Infarction).
- Evaluation of Known or Suspected Arrhythmias.
- Pacemaker or ICD Function Checks.
- Monitoring during Cardiac Rehabilitation.
- Assessment of Electrolyte Imbalance or metabolic disturbances.
- Screening for Congenital Heart Defects.
- Assessment of Medication Toxicity (digoxin, antidepressants, etc.).
What Can an ECG Detect?
Rhythm Disturbances (Arrhythmias)
- Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
- Ventricular Tachycardia and Fibrillation
- Bradycardia and various degrees of Heart Blocks
- Premature Contractions (Extrasystoles)
Ischemic Heart Disease
- Acute Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
- Old Infarction (Scar Tissue changes)
- Myocardial Ischemia (Angina)
- Signs of Coronary Artery Disease
- Changes induced by physical or emotional stress
Structural Abnormalities
- Chamber Enlargement (Atria or Ventricles)
- Myocardial Hypertrophy (LVH, RVH)
- Pericarditis and Myopericarditis (inflammation of heart linings)
- Cardiomyopathies of various origins
- Certain types of Congenital Heart Defects
Conduction Disorders
- Bundle Branch Blocks (RBBB, LBBB)
- AV Blocks (1st, 2nd, and 3rd degree)
- Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome and Pre-excitation
- Sick Sinus Syndrome
- Long QT Syndrome
Types of ECG Studies Available at Our Center
12-Lead Resting ECG
Standard Procedure performed while lying down. Provides a comprehensive view of electrical activity from 12 angles. Duration: 5–10 minutes.
- Most common diagnostic type
- Baseline assessment of myocardial status
- Screening for pathologies and preoperative checks
Holter Monitoring
24–48 Hour Continuous Recording during the patient's normal activities. Detects transient arrhythmias and ischemia not captured by a standard ECG.
- For symptoms like palpitations or dizziness
- Evaluates drug efficacy and pacemaker function
- Correlation of readings with the patient's diary
Stress Test (Treadmill Test)
ECG Recording During Physical Exercise. Evaluates heart function under stress and identifies exertional ischemia. Duration: 15–30 minutes.
- Evaluation of exercise tolerance
- Diagnosis of unexplained chest pain
- Post-infarction status assessment
Event Recorder
Long-term Recording Device (weeks). The patient activates it manually at the onset of symptoms. Ideal for rare but serious episodes.
- Diagnosis of episodic fainting (syncope)
- Monitoring following ablation procedures
- Long-term rhythm control
How is a Standard 12-Lead ECG Performed?
Preparation and Positioning
The patient lies comfortably on an examination couch. The chest area must be cleared of clothing. The skin is cleaned to ensure optimal contact; if there is dense hair, specific areas may be prepared for electrode fixation.
Electrode Placement
10 electrodes are applied: 6 on the chest and 4 on the limbs. These are small adhesive patches with conductive gel that are safely and painlessly secured to the skin.
Data Recording
The patient remains still, breathes normally, and does not speak. The ECG machine records the heart's electrical activity for approximately 10 seconds across 12 different leads.
Completion
The electrodes are gently removed. The patient can dress and immediately return to their daily routine. Results are printed or saved to the patient’s digital medical record.
Interpretation of Results
A cardiologist analyzes the graphs, intervals, and waves. Automated computer analysis is always verified by a physician, after which an official report with recommendations is issued.
Schedule Your ECG in Kharkiv
Regular cardiac screening is the foundation of maintaining health and detecting dangerous conditions early. The ECG remains one of the most valuable and accessible tools in cardiology. Our modern equipment and experienced team of cardiologists guarantee diagnostic accuracy and your safety.
Contact Brigid Medical Center today to schedule your ECG or to receive a professional consultation from a cardiologist.
Brigid Medical Center — Comprehensive Cardiac Diagnostics in Kharkiv.
Modern ECG Systems · Experienced Experts · Rapid Results · Personalized Care
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