Leads aVR, aVL, and aVF are classified as what type of leads?

aVR, aVL, and aVF are classified as unipolar leads because they measure the electrical activity of the heart from a single point, with the reference electrode placed at an electrically neutral point (the average potential of the two limb leads not being used). Unipolar leads provide a view of the heart’s electrical activity from specific angles, allowing clinicians to assess different aspects of cardiac function.

In contrast, bipolar leads measure the electrical potential between two distinct points. Chest leads, known as precordial leads, specifically refer to the leads placed across the chest. The term "mixed leads" typically does not apply within the standard classification system for electrocardiographic leads. Understanding this distinction is crucial in interpreting electrocardiograms (ECGs) and assessing heart health.