ECG Physics

We are studying the 12 lead ECG. So far, using the 10 electrodes that we have attached to the patient, we only have 9 views of the heart to look at:

• 3 limb lead views (lead I, II, III)

• 6 chest lead views (V1-V6).

 

(Remember that the black lead on the right leg does not give any readings, it acts as a reference point)

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The remaining 3 views come from the augmented leads. These measure electrical activity from a central point, outwards towards the limb lead electrodes, as shown in the diagram.

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These leads are neamed according to which limb electrode is performing the voltage measurement:

- aVR (augmented view right arm)

- aVL (augmented view left arm)

- aVF (augmented view foot)

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