Semi-automated ECG processing: A simple method to improve efficiency in ECG laboratories

A method to expedite processing of electrocardiograms (ECGs) is described. The hardware configuration utilizes conventional equipment, and the ECG data is stored in magnetic data cards. The electrocardiographer's interpretation is made using a specially developed code of 253 diagnostic statements of 2 to 9 words each. A minicomputer converts the code into full alpha-numeric description and 2 characters into English statements. The diagnostic print-out appears in the same page as the reproduction of the original ECG data. This system has significantly reduced the ECG processing time, freed manpower to increase availability of technicians and decreased the size of permanent files.