THE CARDIAC ELECTROGRRAM IN REVER¬SIBLE MYOCARDIAL ISCHEMIA

Abstract

Bipolar cardiac electrograms were obtained in dogs from ischemic areas following temporary coronary artery ligation. Characteristic alterations from the controls were observed, including increase in dura tion, decrease in amplitude and alterations in configuration. These changes were found to be completely reversible upon restoration of coronary flow. The bipolar electrogram has been recommended for the delineation of areas of permanent myocardial damage from normal tissue during cardiac surgery. Interpretation of such bipolar elcctrograms as ind icating permanent myocardial damage must be approached with appropriate caution.