The importance of derived 12-lead electrocardiography in the interpretation of arrhythmias detected by Holter recording.

Holter monitoring has been used extensively for the detection, diagnosis, and evaluation of therapy for cardiac arrhythmias. The availability of three-channel monitors allows for the recording of vectorcardiographic leads X, Y, and Z. One method, which was recently described by Dower et al., (J Electrocardiol 1988;21:5182-7), uses modified vectorcardiographic leads and allows for the acquisition of a derived 12-lead ECG of selected rhythm strips during the recording. In the present study, we evaluated the usefulness of the derived 12-lead ECG in the detection of P-wave and ST-segment shifts, assessment of QRST changes, and distinction between ventricular ectopic and aberrant supraventricular complexes. Our preliminary findings indicate that careful analysis of the derived 12-lead ECG provides additional information for a more accurate diagnosis of arrhythmias that are detected by the Holter monitor. The clinical importance and cost-effectiveness of the derived 12-lead ECG needs further evaluation.