An electrocardiogram (ECG) tracing is a graphical representation of electrical activity of the heart. An ECG is generally performed by a cardiologist or ECG technician. This particular method of viewing or monitoring movement of the heart has been used for the greater part of the past century and is a common, noninvasive method of examining heart activity.
An ECG, also called an EKG, from the German elektrokardiogramm, is able to easily map the rhythm and electrical activity produced by each heart beat. The graphing of an ECG maps heart rhythm and heart rate. The output of an ECG — an ECG tracing — is a useful diagnostic tool and can be used to detect and diagnose abnormal patterns or rhythms in heart rate and electrical impulses.
Through the examination of an ECG tracing, it is possible to see evidence of coronary artery disease, locate damaged heart tissue, and detect other cardiovascular disorders. An ECG tracing can provide a baseline examination of the tissues of the heart and can show whether a heart attack, or myocardial infarction, has occurred. Following a heart attack, an ECG can be used to examine the electrical activity in various areas and tissues of the heart and to help find damaged areas.