Electrocardiogram

It is a medical test that records the heart's electrical activity quickly, safely, and noninvasively. It is used to detect abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias), problems in electrical conduction, damage to the heart muscle, or signs of a heart attack, to guide urgent or preventive medical decisions.

The patient lies on a table and electrodes (small adhesive patches) are placed on the chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes are connected to a device that records the heart's electrical signals. It is a quick, painless, and noninvasive procedure that usually takes between 5 and 10 minutes.