- The ECG recorded by different leads is analysed on the basis of variation of electrical potential at various loci on the surface of the body, and the time scale relation of different waves. After analysing the ECG, following particulars of heart are proposed to be obtained
A. Stoke volume and cardiac output
B. Volume and pressure changes during cardiac cycle
C. Anatomical orientation of heart
D. Various disturbances in the rhythm and conduction of cardiac excitation
E. The extent, location and progress of ischemic damage to myocardium
Which one of the following combinations represents both INCORRECT particulars of heart?
(1) A and B (2) B and C
(3) C and D (4) D and E
Understanding What ECG Can Reveal About the Heart
An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the heart’s electrical activity and provides invaluable information about cardiac rhythm, conduction, and ischemic damage. However, there are inherent limitations in what ECG data can accurately determine.
Analysis of Proposed Cardiac Particulars Obtained from ECG
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A. Stroke volume and cardiac output
Incorrect: ECG does not measure the mechanical aspects of cardiac function such as stroke volume or cardiac output. These require imaging modalities or invasive hemodynamic monitoring. -
B. Volume and pressure changes during the cardiac cycle
Incorrect: ECG reflects electrical activity but cannot directly measure dynamic volume or pressure changes in the heart chambers or arteries. -
C. Anatomical orientation of the heart
Correct: ECG provides data on the electrical axis and orientation of the heart in the thorax through lead analysis and vector calculations. -
D. Various disturbances in rhythm and conduction of cardiac excitation
Correct: ECG is the gold standard for detecting arrhythmias, conduction blocks, and other electrical disturbances. -
E. The extent, location, and progress of ischemic damage to myocardium
Correct: ECG manifestations such as ST changes, T wave inversion, and Q waves help localize myocardial ischemia and infarction, although imaging confirms the extent.
Selecting the Incorrect Particulars
Based on this:
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(1) A and B — Both incorrect
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(2) B and C — B incorrect, C correct
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(3) C and D — Both correct
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(4) D and E — Both correct
Therefore, the correct option representing both incorrect particulars is:
(1) A and B
Explanation
ECG excels in detecting electrical abnormalities (rhythm, ischemia, conduction) and heart orientation. However, it cannot measure:
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Stroke volume (the volume of blood pumped per beat).
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Cardiac output (amount of blood pumped per minute).
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Direct pressure changes within the chambers.
These require echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, or other imaging and monitoring techniques.
Summary Table of ECG Diagnostic Capabilities
Cardiac Particular Can ECG Measure? Explanation Stroke volume and cardiac output No Requires hemodynamic or imaging modalities Volume and pressure changes No Electrical only; mechanical data needs imaging Anatomical orientation Yes Electrical axis gives orientation clues Rhythm and conduction disturbances Yes Primary ECG diagnostic strength Ischemic damage extent and location Yes ST, T, Q waves reflect ischemia/infarction
Conclusion
The combination of cardiac particulars NOT accurately assessed by ECG is:
(1) A and B
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4 Comments
Varsha Tatla
September 16, 2025ECG measure stroke volume , cardiac output, pressure change during contraction & relaxation
Mahima Sharma
September 18, 2025An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the heart’s electrical activity and provides invaluable information about cardiac rhythm, conduction, and ischemic damage. However, there are inherent limitations in what ECG data can accurately determine.
Aakansha sharma Sharma
September 26, 2025The combination of cardiac particulars NOT accurately assessed by ECG is:
(1) A and B
Kajal
October 3, 2025A and B are not the function of ECG