Cardiac Medicine Certification Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive Prep Guide

During an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), the posterior wall of the heart is traditionally monitored using specific leads that are placed on the back of the chest. The leads V7, V8, and V9 are specifically designed to assess the electrical activity of the posterior part of the left ventricle. By placing these leads on the left side of the back, clinicians can capture changes in the electrical signals that indicate any issues in the posterior wall, such as ischaemia or infarction.

This configuration broadens the monitoring capabilities beyond the standard anterior leads, allowing for a more comprehensive evaluation of the heart’s health, especially in scenarios where a posterior myocardial infarction may occur, which can sometimes be overlooked with the standard 12-lead EKG arrangement. Thus, utilizing leads V7, V8, and V9 is essential for adequate monitoring of posterior wall abnormalities.