Abstract

Introduction: The 12-lead ECG at admission of patients suffering from acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is mandatory for accurate diagnosis and prompt therapeutic measures, mainly reperfusion. It has been shown that recording additional ECG leads may improve the diagnostic accuracy and therefore, the prognosis of selected cases. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the usefulness of the 15-lead ECG (12 classic plus 3 posterior leads) in the management of chest pain patients, especially when 12-lead ECG is not diagnostic of AMI. Methods: Total amount of 186 consecutive patients (127 men, 59 women, mean age 69.7±13.8 years) were admitted with an acute coronary syndrome. The initial ECG recorded the 12 classic leads, and subsequently, the 3 additional posterior leads. Demographic and clinical data, including ECG alterations and selected treatment strategy, were also studied. The cumulative impact of the 15-lead ECG on the diagnosis and management of AMI were, overall, evaluated. Results: The 12-lead ECG was diagnostic of ST-elevation AMI (STEMI) in 158 patients (Group A–84.5%) who were promptly reperfused. On the other hand, the interpretation of the posterior leads was required in 28 patients (Group B–15.1%) to establish the STEMI diagnosis warranting reperfusion therapy. Multivariate analysis illustrated that the 15-lead ECG was the only factor associated with achieving the STEMI diagnosis in non-conclusive 12-lead ECG cases (OR=2.43–p=0.04). Conclusion: The use of the 15-lead ECG contributes to a faster and more accurate diagnosis of STEMI, particularly in the Emergency Department, facilitating the prompt reperfusion therapy.

Key words: 15-lead ECG, posterior leads, acute myocardial infarction.