ECG Mapping for Better Heart Attack Detection

A new multicenter study has demonstrated that an electrocardiogram (ECG) mapping system is better able to provide an early diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (MI) than a conventional ECG system.

Investigators measured the ability of the ECG mapping system, called Prime ECG, to detect acute ST-elevation MI (STEMI) in 647 patients with chest pain, compared to diagnosis by a 12-lead ECG system. They found that the Prime ECG system had a sensitivity of 93% vs 57% for conventional ECG. Specificity was 95% for both systems. Positive troponin tests were used as the gold standard for comparison. The study also showed that Prime ECG detected more posterior (36%) and right ventricular (33%) MIs than conventional ECG.

The studies were conducted at UK and US medical centers. Prime ECG incorporates 64 anterior and 16 posterior leads, and features a disposable electrode vest. Computer software processes heart signals to create easily interpreted diagnostic images. Prime ECG is the product of Meridian Medical Technologies, Inc. (Columbia, MD, USA).

"These study results document the potential of this important new technology to save lives through earlier and more effective detection of myocardial infarction,” said Dr. Joseph P. Ornato, chairman of emergency medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University Health System (Richmond, VA, USA) and principal investigator in the study.




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