Impedance cardiography

Impedance Cardiography

Impedance Cardiography (im-PEE-dance car-dee-OG-rah-fee), also known as ICG, is a noninvasive medical technology used to measure the cardiac output of the heart. The term originates from the Latin impedire meaning "to hinder" and the Greek kardiographia meaning "heart writing".

Overview

Impedance Cardiography involves the use of electrical impedance to measure changes in blood volume during the cardiac cycle. This is achieved by placing electrodes on the skin and sending a small, harmless electrical current through the body. The changes in voltage are then measured and used to calculate the cardiac output.

Procedure

The procedure for Impedance Cardiography is simple and noninvasive. The patient is asked to lie down and electrodes are placed on the neck and chest. A small electrical current is then passed through the body and the changes in voltage are measured. The data is then analyzed to determine the cardiac output.

Applications

Impedance Cardiography is used in a variety of medical settings, including cardiology, critical care, and anesthesiology. It is particularly useful in situations where continuous monitoring of cardiac output is required, such as during surgery or in the intensive care unit.

Related Terms

Cardiac Output: The volume of blood pumped by the heart in one minute.
Electrode: A conductor through which electricity enters or leaves an object, substance, or region.
Impedance: The measure of the opposition that a circuit presents to a current when a voltage is applied.

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Impedance cardiography