Electrocardiographic localization of infarct related coronary artery in acute ST elevation myocardial infarction

The electrocardiogram (ECG) remains a crucial tool in the identification and management of acute myocardial infarction (MI). A detailed analysis of patterns of ST-segment elevation may influence decisions regarding the use of reperfusion therapy. The early and accurate identification of the infarct-related artery on the ECG can help predict the amount of myocardium at risk and guide decisions regarding the urgency of revascularization. The specificity of the ECG in acute MI is limited by individual variations in coronary anatomy as well as by the presence of preexisting coronary artery disease, particularly in patients with a previous MI, collateral circulation, or previous coronary-artery bypass surgery. The ECG is also limited by its inadequate representation of the posterior, lateral, and apical walls of the left ventricle. Despite these limitations, the electrocardiogram can help in identifying proximal occlusion of the coronary arteries, which results in the most extensive and most severe myocardial infarctions.