Apparatus and method for consistent patient-specific EKG electrode positioning

摘要

A patient-specific electrode positioning apparatus and method allow the standard twelve-lead EKG test to be performed in an accurate and consistent manner by eliminating individual positioning of the six precordial electrodes for all but the first test on a particular patient. Each electrode is slidably mounted on a platform aligned on the torso of the patient. The mount containing each electrode is adjusted until the electrode is properly positioned for the test and then the mount is permanently fixed in place by a lock-down mechanism, leaving the electrodes permanently positioned on the platform so that, when the platform is aligned properly on the particular patient's torso utilizing a pre-adjusted index marker, the electrodes will be properly positioned for a repeat administration of the EKG test. In one embodiment, the platform is flexible plastic with a "reversed S" shape and embedded wires accessible at one end of the platform for connection to the EKG machine. The electrodes are mounted on plastic electrical connectors extending around the precordial electrode platform in a manner allowing each electrode to be initially freely moveable along the length of the platform. Once each electrode is properly positioned, the connector on which it is mounted is activated by compressing the plastic connector body around the platform, simultaneously fixing the electrode in place and making an electrical connection between the electrode and one of the embedded wires. Limb electrodes in any of the standard implementations may be used, as may standard telemetry devices. This embodiment may also be configured for use in a right-sided EKG test by reversing the platform horizontally and flipping over the connectors. In an alternate embodiment of the invention, the platform has multiple articulating arms particularly adapted for folding the device. The device may further be combined in a carrying case with various optional devices and medical information.