[The electrocardiogram in epidemiology: the Minnesota code].

A correct methodological approach to electrocardiogram interpretation is an important requirement above all as far as epidemiological studies on large case reports are concerned. The Minnesota code represents a pattern of objective classification of the electrocardiogram and it is fit for application to studies on people and consequent statistical analysis. It consists of a series of items which are assembled in nine principal classes, each of them describing with objectivity a figure of the electrocardiogram; moreover it includes several classes for the codification of the electrocardiogram after effort and in sequenced studies. Multiple applications in this sense confirm the validity of this code which gains, in times of automatisation, a new value.