Authors' objectives: This report aims to assess the accuracy and reliability of using computerized interpretation of electrocardiograms (ECG) for routine examinations.

Authors' recommendations: The literature reviewed suggests that the role of computerized interpretation of resting ECG in primary care has future potential. However, no clinical studies conducted to determine whether computerized interpretation of resting ECG can be considered an accurate and reliable automated laboratory for screening normal ECGs in aysmptomatic adults during routine clinical examination have been located. The available evidence suggests that the computer programs with the best performance may be as accurate in diagnosing normal ECGs as the human reader. However, computerized interpretation of normal ECGs should be used with an awareness of the risk of false positive and false negative findings. Conclusive answers could not be found on the diagnostic accuracy and reliability of using computerized interpretation of resting ECG for screening normal ECGs in asymptomatic adults. The question of whether it can replace interpretation by a skilled professional in an ambulatory clinical setting has yet to be answered.

Authors' methods: Systematic review

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2002

URL for published report: http://www.ihe.ca/advanced-search/accuracy-and-reliability-of-using-computerized-interpretation-of-electrocardiograms-for-routine-examinations

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Institute of Health Economics

Contact Address: 1200, 10405 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5J 3N4. Tel: +1 780 448 4881; Fax: +1 780 448 0018;

Contact Name: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Contact Email: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Copyright: <p>Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research (AHFMR)</p>