[Optimal electrode array for ambulatory measuring of cardiac output based on the electrical impedance method]

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Physiological Measurement

Context:

• Ambulatory cardiac output (CO) monitoring is crucial for diagnosing and managing cardiovascular conditions.
• Current methods for CO measurement often lack portability or invasiveness.
• Developing a reliable, non-invasive ambulatory CO measurement technique is a significant clinical need.

Purpose:

• To introduce and validate a novel ambulatory cardiac output (CO) measurement technique.
• To investigate current distribution on the thorax using a multi-channel impedance mapping system.
• To determine the optimal spot-electrode array for accurate ambulatory CO measurement based on a two-compartment model.

Summary:

• Experimental studies analyzed static (Zo-map) and pulsatile (deltaZ-map) impedance contour maps under various electrode placements.
• The applicability of a two-compartment coaxial cylindrical model with a spot-electrode array was evaluated for ambulatory CO measurement.
• The optimal spot-electrode array was identified with current injection electrodes behind the ears and on the right lower abdomen, and voltage electrodes on the medial clavicle and above the xiphisternum.

Impact:

• Establishes an optimized electrode configuration for a non-invasive, ambulatory cardiac output monitoring system.
• Provides a foundation for improved patient care through continuous, accessible hemodynamic assessment.
• Contributes to advancements in wearable biomedical devices for long-term cardiovascular health surveillance.