Automated Identification of Culprit Coronary Artery

摘要

A diagnostic ECG system analyzes lead traces for evidence of ST elevation in the lead signals. The pattern of ST elevation in leads having predetermined vantage points to the electrical activity of the heart and, in some instances, the presence of ST depression in certain other leads, identifies a specific coronary artery or branch as the culprit coronary artery for an acute ischemic event. The identity of the culprit coronary artery or branch is presented to the interventional cardiologist so that the correct coronary artery is accessed and the obstruction cleared. The technique can be used with standard 12-lead ECG systems as well as with ECG systems using fewer or more leads.