Limitations of the computer in electrocardiographic interpretation.

Use of the computer for electrocardiographic interpretation has steadily increased over the past decade. Although acceptance by a majority of physicians has been slower than originally anticipated, it now appears assured. Nevertheless, the approach has limitations. These are primarily a result of the lack of objectivity in clinical electrocardiographic criteria for both measurement and diagnosis. The limitations are best judged by reviewing experience with a variety of programs. Currently this still involves abstracting from the reports of developers. Although not all developers have analyzed every portion of their programs, in general the data from one program apply to others; that is, all are with minor exceptions at the same "state of the art." Awareness of the limits of computer performance allows a physician to use the computer properly in his current electrocardiographic practice.