Which lead is used to detect changes associated with an inferior wall myocardial infarction?

Lead II is commonly used to detect changes associated with an inferior wall myocardial infarction (MI). This is because Lead II provides a strong view of the inferior portion of the heart, which is primarily supplied by the right coronary artery in a right-dominant coronary system.

When ischemia or infarction occurs in this area, it can lead to distinct changes in the ECG that are visible in Lead II, such as ST-segment elevation or the presence of Q waves. These changes are crucial for diagnosing an inferior MI.

In a clinical setting, Leads III and the augmented vector foot (aVF) also analyze the inferior wall, but Lead II is more specifically used due to its alignment with the electrical activity of the heart, making it more sensitive for detecting inferior wall abnormalities.

Thus, using Lead II, healthcare providers can effectively monitor and interpret the electrical signals reflecting changes in the inferior wall, enhancing the accuracy of MI diagnosis.