ST segment
[Image:SinusRhythmLabels.svg|right|thumb|Schematic representation of normal ECG]
In electrocardiography, the ST segment connects the QRS complex and the T wave and has a duration of 0.005 to 0.150 sec.
It starts at the J point and ends at the beginning of the T wave. However, since it is usually difficult to determine exactly where the ST segment ends and the T wave begins, the relationship between the ST segment and T wave should be examined together. The typical ST segment duration is usually around 0.08 sec. It should be essentially level with the PR and TP segments.
The ST segment represents the isoelectric period when the ventricles are in between depolarization and repolarization.
Interpretation
- The normal ST segment has a slight upward concavity.
- Flat, downsloping, or depressed ST segments may indicate coronary ischemia.
- ST elevation may indicate transmural myocardial infarction. An elevation of >1mm and longer than 80 milliseconds following the J-point. This measure has a false positive rate of 15-20% and a false negative rate of 20–30%.
- ST depression may be associated with subendocardial myocardial infarction, hypokalemia, or digitalis toxicity.