A comparison of esophageal and chest electrodes in studying the diaphragmatic EMG

In exploring respiratory fatigue detection using the electromyograph (EMG), two EMG signals may be collected. One resulting from skin electrodes placed on the outside of the chest and the other from an esophageal electrode. The current trend in respiratory muscle fatigue detection is to use skin electrodes as the recipients of the diaphragmatic EMG signal. This eliminates the need of subjecting the person to a nasally inserted EMG electrode. Although it is more convenient to use this type of electrode, it does have several distinct disadvantages that must be overcome if accurate analysis is to take place. This paper compares the advantages and disadvantages of the two electromyograph detection methods and addresses the appropriate use of both.