[The accuracy of surface kymography following myocardial infarcts, with special reference of cardiac aneurysms (author's transl)].

Surface kymography in three planes were performed in 180 patients following myocardial infarcts, and these were compared with the results of coronary angiography and selective laevocardiography. Kymography performed for the diagnosis of cardiac aneurysms and myocardial scars is relatively accurate (53%), as shown by a comparison with the laevocardiograms. Of the aneurysms demonstrated by laevocardiography in the left ventricle (31), it was possible to show 22 (71%) kymographically. In order to achieve these results, it is necessary to examine at least three marginal contours of the left ventricle by kymography (left heart border, anterior and posterior wall). The routine use of kymography before employing invasive techniques provides useful information regarding the optimal plane of the laevocardiogram. Furthermore, it indicates the presence of myocardial disease and the need for further investigation.