ECG Interpretation: Clinical Relevance, Challenges, and Advances

Abstract

Since its inception, the electrocardiogram (ECG) has been an essential tool in medicine. The ECG is more than a mere tracing of cardiac electrical activity; it can detect and diagnose various pathologies including arrhythmias, pericardial and myocardial disease, electrolyte disturbances, and pulmonary disease. The ECG is a simple, non-invasive, rapid, and cost-effective diagnostic tool in medicine; however, its clinical utility relies on the accuracy of its interpretation. Computer ECG analysis has become so widespread and relied upon that ECG literacy among clinicians is waning. With recent technological advances, the application of artificial intelligence-augmented ECG (AI-ECG) algorithms has demonstrated the potential to risk stratify, diagnose, and even interpret ECGs—all of which can have a tremendous impact on patient care and clinical workflow. In this review, we examine (i) the utility and importance of the ECG in clinical practice, (ii) the accuracy and limitations of current ECG interpretation methods, (iii) existing challenges in ECG education, and (iv) the potential use of AI-ECG algorithms for comprehensive ECG interpretation.

Wearable Epileptic Seizure Prediction System Based on Machine Learning Techniques Using ECG, PPG and EEG Signals

“…Significant information can be extracted from the EEG signal by applying data mining techniques for feature extraction or with statistical features, i.e., spectral power, entropy, etc. On the other hand, the ECG measures the electrical activity of the heart [ 10 ]. This signal can be used to obtain information about health status from the Heart Rate Variability (HRV) parameter.…”

The Application of Computer Techniques to ECG Interpretation

“…One of the groups which has been most active in this area is from the Mayo Clinic, Minnesota, USA. Rafie et al describe an approach to 12 lead ECG interpretation which uses one form of artificial intelligence [6]. This is one of the earliest examples of 12 lead interpretation using this newer technique, and the authors frequently refer to the "potential" use of the approach in routine ECG interpretation.…”

Wearable Technology for Monitoring Electrocardiograms (ECGs) in Adults: A Scoping Review

“…A vital clinical utility of ECG measurement is in detecting acute and chronic myocardial infarction, helping to differentiate coronary artery chest pain from non-cardiac chest pain. Another common diagnostic role is in the identification and management of arrhythmias localizing supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias [ 6 ]. Other cardiovascular diseases, such as myocarditis, pericarditis, and structural deformities, and non-cardiovascular diseases, including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, electrolyte imbalance, and pulmonary embolisms, can manifest as alterations of the ECG curve [ 7 ].…”