ECG artifacts are external interference or movements that distort the electrocardiographic tracing, making correct interpretation of the exam difficult or impossible. They can be caused by several factors, including technical problems, patient movement, or equipment failure.

ECG Changes

  • Loose electrode: causes oscillation of the baseline and of the ST segment, compromising the quality of the tracing
  • Wandering baseline: usually an artifact caused by patient movement
  • Tremor artifact: tremor can produce coarse, repetitive waves on the baseline, mimicking arrhythmias
  • Electromagnetic artifacts: caused by interference from the power line or nearby electronic devices. They produce coarse, repetitive waves on the baseline
  • Chest compression artifact: occurs during cardiopulmonary resuscitation

ECG with Artifacts

Electrocardiogram with artifact

Artifact. Baseline oscillations producing pseudo-P waves, which may be mistaken for atrial tachycardia or atrial flutter.

Electrocardiogram with artifact

Artifact. Tremor producing baseline oscillations and mimicking ventricular arrhythmias.

References

  1. Alencar JN. Tratado de ECG. 2022.