Novacode ECG classification for myocardial infarction

Novacode ECG classification for myocardial infarction

Novacode ECG classification for myocardial infarction: The Novacode ECG classification system is a set of criteria for ECG abnormalities and for clinically significant serial ECG changes. The criteria are used to grade Q wave and other ischemic abnormalities to classify old and new myocardial infarctions and to minimize false classifications of insignificant ECG variations.
Novacode for myocardial infarction ranges includes 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4.
Novacode 5.0, no significant Q-wave or ST-T abnormality


Novacode 5.1, Q-wave myocardial infarction (major Q waves)
Novacode 5.2, Q-wave myocardial infarction (moderate Q waves with ST-T abnormalities)
Novacode 5.3, possible Q-wave myocardial infarction (moderate Q waves without ST-T abnormalities)
Novacode 5.4, possible Q-wave myocardial infarction (minor Q waves with ST-T abnormalities)


Novacode 5.5, isolated ST abnormalities
Novacode 5.6, isolated T-wave abnormalities
Novacode 5.7, minor Q waves
Novacode 5.8, minor ST-T abnormalities

The Novacode ECG classification is used to define prevalent ECG abnormalities and clinically significant serial changes. It is useful in clinical trials to check adverse and favourable changes in response to medications, surgery or other interventions [1]. The hierarchy is structured in a way that a general class is determined with the simplest criteria and elaborate criteria are set for more specific abnormality subgroups. The approach is different from the traditional Minnesota Code formulated by the University of Minnesota.

The definitions of ECG variables and condition statements for the classification criteria are suited for Novacode implementation by computer programs [1].

Reference

  1. P M Rautaharju, L P Park, B R Chaitman, F Rautaharju, Z M Zhang. The Novacode criteria for classification of ECG abnormalities and their clinically significant progression and regression. J Electrocardiol. 1998 Jul;31(3):157-87.