Electrocardiogram

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG, abbreviated from the German Elektrokardiogramm) is a graphic produced by an electrocardiograph, which records the electrical voltage in the heart in the form of a continuous strip graph. It is the prime tool in cardiac electrophysiology, and has a prime function in screening and diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases.

Representation in culture

The ECG has become so familiar to the general population that it is part of the logo of many medical organisations, representing the technical side of medicine vs. the Rod of Asclepius or caduceus, which are more traditional. Being an electrical representation, it signifies vitality and urgency.

Related Topics:
Rod of Asclepius - Caduceus

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In various television medical dramas, an isoelectric ECG (no cardiac electrical activity or flatline) is often used as a symbol of death or at least extreme medical peril. This is technically known as asystole, a form of cardiac arrest with a particularly bad prognosis.

Related Topics:
Television - Asystole - Cardiac arrest

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