Your heart generates electrical impulses causing it to beat or
contract. The electrocardiogram (ECG) records your heart's rhythms
and electrical impulses through 10 electrodes that are placed on
your chest, arms and legs.
The test takes only 5-10 minutes to complete and is completely
painless. It is usually done right in your hospital room or
treatment room.
If you are taking certain chemotherapy drugs called
anthracyclines, you will probably have an ECG prior to treatment
and then again, periodically throughout your treatment. Because
anthracyclines can cause damage to your heart muscle, your doctor
will closely monitor your heart's function and adjust your
treatment plan if necessary.