singlelead

Single-lead electrocardiography (single-lead ECG) is an electrocardiogram recorded using a single recording lead, capturing the electrical potential difference between two contact points rather than the multiple vectors used in a standard 12-lead system. A single-lead trace provides a simplified view of the heart’s rhythm and rate and can be useful for basic monitoring and screening, especially outside traditional clinical settings.

Most single-lead devices place two electrodes on the body—such as on the wrist, chest, or fingers—or use a wearable patch. The device records one vector, yielding information about heart rate and rhythm but offering limited insight into ischemia, infarction, or detailed conduction abnormalities that a full 12-lead ECG can reveal. Data may be presented as a short rhythm strip or a continuous recording, depending on the device.

Applications of single-lead ECG include inpatient or outpatient rhythm monitoring, home or portable screening, and consumer devices that provide a convenient way to check heart rhythm. They are commonly used to detect atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias and can be helpful for initial triage or ongoing follow-up. However, they are not a substitute for a 12-lead ECG in diagnostic evaluations requiring multiple cardiac views, and their accuracy can depend on electrode placement, motion, and user technique.

Regulatory status varies by device and jurisdiction; some products are marketed for general wellness, while others may be cleared for specific medical indications. Clinicians typically confirm abnormal findings with a standard 12-lead ECG.