Electrocardiogram

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), measurements of the wave patterns produced by the electrical currents generated by the contractions of the heart muscles. The electrocardiogram is the main diagnostic technique of electrocardiography, which is the science of measuring and interpreting the electrical activity of the heart. During an EKG electrodes are attached to the hands, feet, and chest, and the electrical currents are recorded on light-sensitive film. Deviations from the normal shape of the electrical waves point to various disorders of the heart.

See also: Heart.