New EEG Trace Interpretation Method Predicts Neurological Recovery Of Cardiac Arrest Patients May 15, 2009
Basically, an electroencephalogram (EEG) records the electrical activity of the brain in the same way as an electrocardiogram (ECG) records heart activity. Interpreting EEG traces is more difficult, however, since unlike the electrical activity of a regularly beating heart, the electrical activity of the brain consists of irregular impulses generated by billions of brain cells. (Science Daily)
Organ Donation Policies Vary among Children's Hospitals May 14, 2009
Of the 73 hospitals with DCD policies that were analyzed, 61 (84 percent) specified criteria or tests for declaring death, including electrocardiogram (ECG) findings, no pulse, no breathing, and unresponsiveness. Four policies required total waiting periods prior to organ removal that conflict with professional guidelines: One policy had a waiting period of less than 2 minutes, and three policies had waiting periods of longer than 5 minutes. (MEDLINEplus)
* Chen returns to detention center May 13, 2009
The hospital performed various examinations, including a blood test, an x-ray, an electrocardiogram and an ultrasound. On Monday, the Taipei District Court ruled that Chen would remain in detention, citing fears he would collude with witnesses or abscond. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- Taiwan)
* Chen hospitalized after suffering dehydration May 10, 2009
Because Chen was also complaining about pressure in his chest, Yang said the hospital did an X-ray of his lungs as well as an electrocardiogram and heart ultrasound ... The centers authorities said Chen had an electrocardiogram on April 28 and the result came back normal. (Taipei Times, Taiwan)
Researchers identify stroke predictors in black patients Apr 29, 2009
That paradox might result from limitations in the methods (electrocardiograms (ECG) or self-report) used to detect AF, said Elsayed Z. Soliman, M.D., M.Sc ... An electrocardiogram is a diagnostic tool that measures and records the electrical activity of the heart. (EurekAlert!)
ASA Plus Clopidogrel Reduces Heart Attack Risk In Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome, Study Suggests Apr 29, 2009
28, 2009) In order to better prevent blood clots, clopidogrel can be prescribed to patients with acute ischaemia of the heart muscle, in addition to acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). The Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) has now investigated whether the combination of clopidogrel and ASA actually has a higher benefit for patients than ASA alone. (Science Daily)
NURSE’S NOTES - Focus of stroke protocols is quick treatment Apr 29, 2009
Since time is so important, the team will perform many tasks at the same time, such as drawing labs, getting vital signs, starting an intravenous line, performing a blood sugar test, performing an electrocardiogram, starting oxygen, determining what medications the patient is taking and determining when the patient stared having stroke symptoms. The emergency staff knows that moving quickly can help determine what type of stroke is occurring and prevent any complications. (Missoulian, MT)
This is a test of the emergency room writing system Apr 29, 2009
An electrocardiogram (EKG) in October looked good, so did another in December, and a stress test earned an A-plus. Finally my cardiologist, tired of pursuing phantoms, tabled me for a Cardiac Cath. (Weymouth News, MA)
Silent heart attacks more deadly than thought Apr 18, 2009
Doctors usually can tell whether a patient has had a recent heart attack by looking for signature changes on a test of the heart's electrical activity called an electrocardiogram and by checking for certain enzymes in the blood. For a heart attack that might have occurred in the past, doctors look for changes on an electrocardiogram called a Q-wave, a marker for damaged tissue. (MSNBC -- Health)
Hospital gets new ambulances, technology Apr 12, 2009
One of the items on the new ambulances is a 12-lead electrocardiogram (EKG) machine. Before that, we only had about three views of the heart. (Paragould Daily Press, AR)
River rally, safety fair in Whitehall Apr 10, 2009
The Saturday health and safety fair will feature 28 vendors providing health and safety education including hearing screenings, blood pressure checks, posture analysis, blood sugar checks, electrocardiogram tests, body fat analysis, fire safety and seat belt safety. Hourly drawings will be held for gift certificates, and a grand prize. (Montana Standard, MT)
Rotary club of Tamale supports Tamale Teaching Hospital Apr 6, 2009
The donation, which came in two 40-footer containers are made up of 40 per cent equipment and 60 per cent consumables scanners, operating microscopes, X-ray machines, Incubators, Keratometer for eye operations, Electrocardiogram machine, dental chair and accessories, hospital beds, trolleys and wheel chairs. Rotary clubs in United States of America, Canada and the United Kingdom (UK) had supported the Tamale Rotary club through fund raising, which made possible to acquire such essential medical... (Ghana Web, Ghana)
Recently Identified Genetic Heart Disorder Often Deadly For Young Patients Apr 1, 2009
Clinical diagnosis in 6 patients occurred as a result of a heart murmur, family screening and findings on routine electrocardiogram (ECG) or by symptoms (chest pain or fainting) and, in 1 patient, by atrial fibrillation (abnormal heart rhythm). During the subsequent average time of 8. (Science Daily)
A third of college athletes show irregularities on heart tests Mar 28, 2009
This makes many doctors ignore the results of electrocardiogram tests, or ECGs, which can find abnormalities, which is a mistake, the statement said. Female athletes tended to have more symptoms of heart trouble, such as chest pain and fainting, and were less likely to have abnormalities on ECGs. (Boston Globe)
Energy drinks ''harmful for people with BP, heart disease'' Mar 27, 2009
On the first day after a baseline measurement of blood pressure, heart rate and electrocardiogram (EKG) were taken, the adults consumed two cans of the energy drink. Researchers then measured the participants'' blood pressure, heart rate and EKG again at 30 minutes and one, two, three and four hours after consumption. (Sify.com, India)
Danon Disease Can Be Quickly Fatal Mar 26, 2009
In six of them, diagnosis was made as the result of a heart murmur, family screening and findings on routine electrocardiogram tests or from such symptoms as chest pain and fainting ... The final electrocardiograms examined by the researchers showed significant enlargement of the left ventricle in all seven, the study reported. (MEDLINEplus)
How Good Is Health Care in Prison? Mar 26, 2009
Inmates of both genders older than 60 get a yearly electrocardiogram. At least that's the theory. (Slate)
New genes linked to sudden heart failure: Study Mar 23, 2009
An international team of more than 40 scientists, led by Arne Pfeufer of Munich University, analysed the genomes of nearly 16,000 individuals whose QT intervals had been measured by electrocardiogram. They screened some 2. (India Times, India -- Health/Science)
Hopkins scientists ID 10 genes associated with a risk factor for sudden cardiac death Mar 23, 2009
QT interval, which is determined from a standard electrocardiogram (ECG), reflects the time it takes for the heart (ventricles) to contract and then reset for the next heartbeat. Publishing March 22 in Nature Genetics, the international team including researchers from the Technical University in Munich, Johns Hopkins and others, used DNA samples previously collected for epidemiological studies to analyze the genomes of 15,842 individuals whose QT intervals had been measured by electrocardiogram.... (EurekAlert!)
Why healthy people die suddenly Mar 23, 2009
As part of their research, they used DNA samples previously collected for epidemiological studies to analyse the genomes of 15,842 individuals whose QT intervals had been measured by electrocardiogram. Calling it a major breakthrough in heart biology, Chakravarti said: "The reason people die from this cardiovascular disorder is because we know nothing about the antecedents.". (India Times, India)
Ten genes identified in connection with sudden cardiac death Mar 23, 2009
The QT interval can be seen on an electrocardiogram monitor; it's a certain portion of the line that waves or spikes up and down when the heart contracts ... " The next research phase will follow people over time and see which carriers have SCD or are at most risk, and how the changes in QT interval translate into changes in risk, Abecasis said. Scientists studied DNA and electrocardiograms for 15,000 people, and contrasted their findings with those of a parallel study of similar size led by... (EurekAlert!)
400 calories a day, long walks Mar 22, 2009
An electrocardiogram and blood testing are also a part of the first visit, which costs $185, he said. The weigh-in and counseling sessions are $50 and occur monthly. (Mason City Globe-Gazette, IO)
Share your thoughts Mar 21, 2009
I want the people Americans and Canadians who like the Canadian system to see what Canadians are saying about their socialized health care system : (AP) A letter from the Moncton Hospital to a New Brunswick heart patient in need of an electrocardiogram said the appointment would be in three months. It added: If the person named on this computer-generated letter is deceased, please accept our sincere apologies. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Health)
Ultra-thin Chip Embedding For Wearable Electronics Mar 18, 2009
IMEC demonstrates the integration technology with a prototype flexible wireless monitor that measures the heart rate (electrocardiogram or ECG) and muscle activity (electromyogram or EMG). The system consists of an embedded ultra-thin chip for the microcontroller and analog-to-digital convertor, an ultra-low power biopotential amplifier chip and a radio transceiver. (Science Daily)
Summary for Patients Mar 17, 2009
A heart tracing known as an electrocardiogram (ECG) may detect an abnormality (prolongation of the rate-corrected QT [QTc] interval) in patients treated with methadone. This abnormality can result in a rare but life-threatening heart rhythm problem (arrhythmia) called torsade de pointes. (Annals of Internal Medicine)
GE Healthcare to sell portable ECG in US Mar 14, 2009
said Friday that it will roll out its portable electrocardiogram machine in the United States in the second quarter of this year. The company plans to sell the units to physicians' offices and the pharmaceutical industry. (Milwaukee Business Journal, WI)
New Test Seems to Spot Deadly Heart Condition Mar 13, 2009
Diagnosis of ARVC now requires a battery of tests, including an electrocardiogram, an echocardiogram and a magnetic resonance imaging procedure, Saffitz said. But with all those tests, "you have to have pretty advanced disease for it to show up," he said. (MEDLINEplus)
Shooting from the heart Mar 12, 2009
While there, he was given an electrocardiogram (EKG) and it read an abnormal heartbeat. It resulted in a trip to Dr. Kahwaji's office, where an echocardiogram (ultrasound) and CT scan subsequently confirmed the then 14-year-old's heart was in danger, needed complicated surgery and required him to immediately stop partaking in a sport that he had played since he started walking. (Appeal Democrat, CA)
Hospitals promote use of 911 Mar 11, 2009
Technology in area ambulances allow paramedics and EMTs to assess the patient using an electrocardiogram, or EKG, from the site of the call. The crew can also send that information directly to the hospital, so cardiologists can analyze the data before the patient arrives. (Chippewa Falls Chippewa Herald, WI)
Siirtola ready for 37th Iditarod Mar 7, 2009
Each dog is required to undergo an electrocardiogram and extensive blood testing prior to the race, Stuart said. "This is the first of a number of veterinary safety nets that the Iditarod has in place in order to provide the very best possible continuum of care for the dogs," he said. (Bismarck Tribune, ND)
Computerized Mobile Health Support Systems Mar 3, 2009
Four adhesive electrode pads are used to record an electrocardiogram (ECG), while a finger clip measures the patient s blood oxygen level and pulse rate. A nasal clip and expandable belts around the upper torso monitor breathing, and a movement sensor in the device identifies the patient s body position and registers how much he or she moves. (Science Daily)
Heart-disease related deaths on the downswing in Kittitas County Feb 28, 2009
When a patient reports chest pains, an ambulance is sent and an EKG (Electrocardiogram) is done in the ambulance. Johnson said. (Ellensburg Daily Record, WA)
Risk Score May Predict Abnormal Heart Rhythm Feb 28, 2009
In addition, the time between the P and R waves (PR interval), as seen on an electrocardiogram, was also a significant predictor of AF, the researchers found. The risk of AF varied with age. (MEDLINEplus)
Control Your Anger, Help Your Heart Feb 25, 2009
Yale project looks at electrocardiogram patterns for those with implanted defibrillators ... The T-wave is the last bump in the electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of the heart as it beats. (MEDLINEplus)
Pa. woman sues over son's death in jail Feb 25, 2009
The lawsuit says a jail nurse ran an electrocardiogram test that showed abnormal results, but no treatment was provided and he was returned to his cell. It says Johnson was in "excruciating" pain before dying that night. (Carlisle Sentinel, PA)
Diet, exercise not only keys to good cardio health Feb 24, 2009
He recommended Knight have an electrocardiogram done. "I was having no symptoms. It never occurred to me that I was having heart problems," Knight said. (Orangeburg Times and Democrat, SC)
Father revives son on court in Frenchtown Feb 24, 2009
The best known way to prevent sudden cardiac death events is a complete physical and a 12-lead electrocardiogram, according to an Internet article published by Dr. Daniel Montellese, a senior cardiology fellow at Stony Brook, N.Y., University Hospital, last September on ... They include an enlarged right ventricle, a thinned ventricular wall, fibrous tissue, an abnormal electrocardiogram, family history and a history of blackout episodes. (Missoulian, MT)
Student heart screenings offered again Feb 22, 2009
The screening program consists of an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), a blood pressure reading, Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation and a family and personal heart health questionnaire. The ECG (a non-invasive, painless and quick test) has been proven to detect many heart conditions that may lead to Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). (Marlborough Enterprise, MA)
Stroke: Innovative Team Approach Brings Man Back From The Dead Twice Feb 21, 2009
In the ambulance, EMTs performed an electrocardiogram, (ECG or EKG) on Lark ... 15, 2005) A Michigan hospital has cut in half the time it takes to begin life-saving treatment of heart attack patients by using cell phones to transmit electrocardiograms (ECGs) from the field, according to a. (Science Daily)
Sampler for Feb. 19 Feb 19, 2009
The screening program consists of an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), a blood pressure reading, Body Mass Index calculation, and a family and personal heart health questionnaire. The ECG (a non-invasive, painless and quick test) has been proven to detect many heart conditions that may lead to SCA. According to the Heart Rhythm Society, SCA claims over 14,000 young American lives each year. (Marlborough Enterprise, MA)
Society for Women's Health Research and MITA Promote Greater Awareness of Medical Imaging to Diagnose Women's Coronary Artery Disease Feb 19, 2009
The fact sheet released today provides information on echocardiography, coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) and electrocardiogram (EKG) and other technologies and innovations that physicians may utilize and recommend to their patients. A recent study by Harvard University found that noninvasive CCTA is more cost-effective than current tests for diagnosing women with low risk of a heart attack who come to the emergency room with acute chest pain. (PR Newswire)
OCEANSIDE: 'Miracle' recovery astounds man's family (70448) Feb 18, 2009
He said an electrocardiogram tape recorded during resuscitation efforts showed that paramedics performed CPR and delivered multiple shocks with a portable defibrillator for about 35 minutes before they were able to get the man's heart beating again. Although no one knows exactly how long Connelly's brain went without oxygen, Nielsen said it had to be at least 10 minutes. (North County Times)
Inflammation May Be Common Thread Behind Nervous And Heart Rhythm Problems In Cirrhosis Feb 18, 2009
Second, they measured heart rate variability using an electrocardiogram. A healthy heart varies the rate at which it beats depending upon a variety of factors. (Science Daily)
Sudden Cardiac Death Rare in Young Athletes Feb 18, 2009
Cardiovascular disease killed more than half those athletes, with one in three being linked to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a condition that results in an enlarged heart that can often be detected by a routine electrocardiogram (ECG). While ECGs are used regularly in pre-screening athletes in Europe, particular in Italy, debate has been ongoing as to whether the United States should call for more rigorous and broad health screening of athletes. (MEDLINEplus)
Hampton cleared to rejoin Astros camp Feb 18, 2009
" Hampton flew to Houston on Monday after his electrocardiogram [EKG] test showed a "glitch" during a routine physical. He was examined by Kissimmee-based physician Dr. Michael Link, who recommended Hampton undergo further examination. Wade was told by doctors that a number of notable Houstonians have had the same type of heart issue, with no lasting effects. "Former President [George] Bush [Sr. and Mrs. [Barbara] Bush and [former Rockets player] Hakeem Olajuwon all experienced the same type of... (MLB.com -- Houston Astros)
India's modernization plans could offer hope for chip sales Feb 18, 2009
GE has developed a new, low-cost, ruggedized electrocardiogram machine that costs about $750, meaning that EKG readings can be generated for a dollar each. "India has tons of opportunities for semiconductor companies," Shah said, adding that the company is working on other standard healthcare products. (EETimes)
Hampton EKG shows 'glitch' Feb 17, 2009
-- Following morning workouts on Monday, Mike Hampton flew back to Houston after his electrocardiogram [EKG] test showed a "glitch," according to general manager Ed Wade. The Astros feel this development is minor. (MLB.com -- Houston Astros)
Dana Milbank: Geithner's 'stress test': How 'bout a transplant? Feb 15, 2009
As Geithner defended his plan, the ticker tape on Wall Street resembled the electrocardiogram of a very sick patient. Dear Readers. (Sacramento Bee -- Opinion)
Rhythm Abnormality Of Unknown Origin Strongly Predicts Sudden Death Risk In Heart Disease Patients Feb 12, 2009
It includes the Q, R, S, and T waves seen on an electrocardiogram. Unlike heart attacks, which are typically caused by clogged coronary arteries, sudden cardiac arrest is the result of defective electrical impulses. (Science Daily)
Heart screening available for children Feb 8, 2009
The screening program consists of an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), a blood pressure reading, Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation and a family and personal heart health questionnaire. The cost to the parent or guardian for their child s preventive heart screening is $49. (Marlborough Enterprise, MA)
Time limit on pre-shock pause Feb 7, 2009
During ventricular fibrillation and tachycardia the electrocardiogram reflects the probability of return of spontaneous circulation associated with defibrillation ... From an electrocardiogram database we identified all intervals without chest compressions that followed an interval with compressions, and where the patients had ventricular fibrillation or tachycardia ... By calculating the mean-slope (a predictor of the return of spontaneous circulation) of the electrocardiogram for each 2-second... (BioMed Central)
Continuous Blood Pressure Monitoring Predicts Risks Feb 7, 2009
A study reported earlier this month by physicians at the London Chest Hospital in England found that performing an electrocardiogram, the standard test for measuring the activity of the heart, is of little use in forecasting future coronary problems for people with chest pain. On the hypertension front, previous studies have indicated that "ambulatory blood pressure measurements do predict things better, in part because they are so frequent," said Dr. William C. Cushman, professor of preventive... (MEDLINEplus)
Women's Death Rate Higher from Severe Heart Attack Feb 7, 2009
STEMI is short for ST-elevation myocardial infarction, a name derived from the heartbeat pattern seen on an electrocardiogram. A STEMI heart attack usually is caused by complete blockage of a coronary artery, which means that more heart muscle dies than if there is only partial blockage. (MEDLINEplus)
Abnormal ECG Seen in Psoriatic Arthritis Patients Feb 7, 2009
Dr. Devy Zisman from Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel, and colleagues compared the electrocardiogram (ECG) scans of 92 patients with psoriatic arthritis to those of 92 "controls," individual matched for age and sex, who did not have psoriatic arthritis. "The major finding of our study," they report, "is a statistically significantly longer PR interval in the patients with psoriatic arthritis compared to individuals without psoriasis or arthritis." The lengthening of the PR interval is a sign... (MEDLINEplus)
Women with Heart Attack Symptoms See Delays in Care Feb 7, 2009
STEMI heart attacks show irregularities on an electrocardiogram and are fast-tracked in a hospital emergency room. About a quarter of patients with chest pain and half of those with heart attacks get to the hospital via EMS (emergency medical services), yet little is known about the timing of this journey. (MEDLINEplus)
Nurse’s Notes - There’s more to cardiac rehabilitation than treadmills Feb 7, 2009
The patient wears an electrocardiogram monitor during all exercise sessions to record the heart s activity. These sessions are under constant medical supervision provided by a nurse or exercise physiologist who regularly communicates with the primary care doctor or cardiologist about the patient s progress. (Missoulian, MT)
EKG Not Strong Predictor of Heart Risk Feb 7, 2009
THURSDAY, Nov. 13 (HealthDay News) -- Performing an electrocardiogram (EKG) -- the standard test for measuring the activity of the heart -- is of little use in predicting future coronary problems for people who are examined because of chest pain, a British study suggests. "In patients with stable chest pain, suspected angina, the resting EKG was of no incremental prognostic value as a means of assessing the risk of patients having further coronary events," said study author Dr. Adam Timmis, a... (MEDLINEplus)
Are cardiac tests equally effective in men and women? Feb 7, 2009
Electrocardiograms are useful in showing electrical conductivity in the heart. Abnormal beating or arrhythmia is best seen on a long electrocardiogram often called a rhythm strip. (CNN -- Health)
Anticoagulant Drugs Had Similar Outcomes After Angioplasty Apr 1, 2008
Treatment with abciximab and implantation of an uncoated stent is a treatment strategy used to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in patients undergoing angioplasty for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI - a certain pattern on an electrocardiogram after a heart attack), according to background information in the study. The researchers noted it hasn't been clear whether using tirofiban instead of abciximab would provide similar benefits. (MEDLINEplus)
Wired for soundness Mar 31, 2008
The sensors, made of stainless steel wires, are soft, washable and placed on the pillow and foot of the sheets for the electrocardiogram, and in the middle of the bed to measure breathing patterns throughout the night. The study, among 200 patients at three hospitals in Germany and Spain, will also require they wear a specially made vest once a day containing similar electrodes that check breathing rates. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Technology)
Comparison of anticoagulants for angioplasty show similar outcomes Mar 31, 2008
Infusion with abciximab and implantation of an uncoated-stent is a treatment strategy used to reduce major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in patients undergoing angioplasty (percutaneous coronary intervention [PCI]) for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI; a certain pattern on an electrocardiogram following a heart attack) ... The researchers found that among the 722 patients (97 percent) who had an interpretable electrocardiogram, at least 50 percent resolution of ST-segment... (EurekAlert!)
Device That Clears Debris From Artery Aids Blood Flow in PCI Mar 31, 2008
Analysis of the elevated ST-segment on the electrocardiogram -- specifically, its return to a normal baseline -- was also used to gauge the quality of blood flow to the heart muscle. During angiography, researchers observed a blush grade of 0 or 1 in 17 percent of patients treated with the aid of the aspiration catheter and in 26 percent of patients treated with conventional PCI (p less than 0. (PR Newswire)
Technology upgrade Mar 28, 2008
The LifePak 12, 12-Lead Electrocardiogram (EKG) helps identify a heart attack and its location in the heart. Each ambulance in the district has an electrocardiogram ... He is teaching a basic emergency medical technician course at Klamath Community College and incorporates training on the electrocardiogram device into his classes. (Klamath Falls Herald & News, OR)
Several Methods Possible For Enhancing The Functioning Of Defibrillators In Cases Of Heart Attack Mar 26, 2008
The automatic external defibrillator (AED) is a device capable of analysing the electrocardiogram and applying, if necessary, defibrillation. The mechanical activity of the thoracic compressions and ventilations induces interference on the electrocardiogram that compromises the reliability of the AED diagnosis ... The methods of filtration designed are divided into two groups: those that only analyse the information of the electrocardiogram registered by the AED and those that require... (Science Daily)
New heart device helps save lives Mar 24, 2008
Staff from the Sun Lakes Fire Department arrived quickly, hooked him to an electrocardiogram monitor, gave him medication to thin his blood and raced him to Chandler Regional Medical Center. Syvertsen didn't know it at the time, but he was one of the first patients in Sun Lakes to benefit from a new device just purchased by the Fire Department: a 12-lead EKG monitor. (AZCentral -- News)
