Computerized ECG Analysis

Abstract

<h3>To the Editor.—</h3> In the review entitled "Status Report on Computerized ECG Analysis" (239:1201, 1978), Ariet and Crevasse make the following statement: "On the other hand, there seems to be no disagreement that presenting a cardiologist with a computerized analysis of an ECG will improve his own diagnostic capability and save time, particularly in reporting." Since this statement is, in fact, the whole justification for promotion of computer ECG programs, it is interesting—and alarming—to discover that it is simply not true. There is widespread disagreement with the notion that computer ECG analysis "will improve diagnostic capability," and there are convincing data to show that it will not. There are no data at all to substantiate the notion that use of computer ECG analysis will save time. Computer ECG proponents confront a dilemma best stated as a question. By universal agreement (including the authors in question),<i>all</i>computer ECG analyses must