Myocardium — ECG/EKG Terminology

Definition: Muscular, middle layer of the heart.

Key Facts

• Muscular middle layer of the heart responsible for contractile force.
• Myocardial oxygen demand rises with rate, wall stress, and contractility.
• Injury to myocardium alters both mechanical function and ECG patterns.

ECG Connection: Ischemia and infarction in myocardium produce ST-T changes and possible pathologic Q waves.

Why It Matters: Continuous monitoring is crucial when myocardial injury is suspected.