A Critical Review of Vector Electrocardiography

The theoretical basis for information retrieval and analysis in vector electrocardiography is examined with a view to establishing fundamental limitations on commonly used clinical techniques. The basis for equivalent heart generators is specified and relationships between them are analyzed. An "ideal" lead system is defined and related to practical clinical schemes. Limitations of an "ideal" lead system are discussed in view of experimental findings which question its diagnostic applicability for abnormal heart conditions. Various analytical tools are related and their practical advantages and disadvantages outlined. The advisability of vectorcardiography as a total replacement for present clinical scaler techniques is seriously questioned.