Abstract
Objective Precordial ECG lead placement is difficult in obese patients with increased chest wall soft tissues due to inaccurate palpation of the intercostal spaces. We investigated whether the length of the sternum (distance between the sternal notch and xiphoid process) can accurately predict the location of the 4th intercostal space, which is the traditional location for V1 lead position. Materials and Methods Fifty-five consecutive adult chest computed tomography examinations were reviewed for measurements. Results The sternal notch to right 4th intercostal space distance was 67% of the sternal notch to xiphoid process length with an overall correlation of r = 0.600 (p < 0.001). Conclusion The above measurement may be utilized to locate the 4th intercostal space for accurate placement of the precordial electrodes in adults in whom the 4th intercostal space cannot be found by physical exam.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 1058-1061 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Journal of Electrocardiology |
Volume | 48 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2015 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- ECG lead placement
- Imaging
- Intercostal space
- Sternal notch
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine