Typical Electrocardiogram
(EKG)
An electrocardiogram, better known as an ECG or EKG, is a heart test that records the
electrical activity of the heart. From this test, much can be learned about the heart
rhythm and heart's chambers (particularly if they are enlarged). In addition to providing
important information about the heart, the test is painless, takes only minutes to
complete, and is relatively inexpensive. Because of these reasons, it is the most common
test done during a cardiology clinic visit.
The placing sticky patches on the test is done in the ECG Lab by ECG technicians who
perform the test by child's chest. Small wires connected to these patches lead to a
machine that records a tracing of the heart rhythm. When the test is completed the patches
are easily removed, much like small Band-Aids are removed from the skin.
Your your child during your visit. doctor will review the ECG tracing and discuss the
results with you and The doctor can answer any questions you may have about your child's
ECG at that time.
Transtelephonic EKG
A transtelephonic EKG is an EKG that is recorded outside the hospital and then sent to
the hospital over the phone. This is done using a special device called a transtelephonic
monitor. These monitors are useful for children who might have a problem with the heart's
electrical system, also called an arrhythmia Often, the only way to diagnose an arrhythmia
is by recording an EKG at the time the problem or the symptom occurs. This is because most
arrhythmias are intermittent and the EKG is often entirely normal except when the
arrhythmia is active.
For children who are known to have an arrhythmia, a transtelephonic monitor may also be
useful. For these children, an EKG can be sent whenever there is concern that the child is
having the arrhythmia. The monitor may also be used to assess the child's response to
arrhythmia treatment.
Transtelephonic EKG monitoring is done through the Pediatric Cardiology Clinic. EKGs
can be sent over the phone to the clinic any time. The EKG will be received by an EKG
technician who will review the tracing with a Pediatric Cardiologist. If there is evidence
of an abnormal heart rhythm, you will be notified at the time the tracing is sent. If no
problems are found, a written report will be sent to your family doctor.
Transtelephonic monitoring can be quite costly if many EKG tracings are sent. It is
always a good idea to check with your insurance company to see what coverage is provided
for this service. |
