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Patient Directed Recording of a Bipolar Three-Lead Electrocardiogram using a Smartwatch with ECG Function
Published on: December 11, 2019
Handy EKG: A Low-Cost Electrocardiograph for Primary Care
Jhiamluka Solano1, Alejandro J Calderón2, Servio Paguada2
1Cardiology, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, GBR.
Insights
A new low-cost, Bluetooth-enabled three-lead electrocardiograph (ECG) device accurately monitors heart rhythms. This portable Handy EKG shows potential for widespread use in primary care settings to detect arrhythmias.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiology
- Digital Health
Background:
- Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death globally and a significant concern in Honduras.
- Specific cardiovascular events like stroke, heart failure, and myocardial infarction frequently lead to emergency room visits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and manufacture a low-cost, three-lead electrocardiograph (ECG) device for primary care applications.
- To evaluate the performance of this device, named Handy EKG, using machine learning and Bluetooth connectivity.
Main Methods:
- A novel three-lead ECG device (Handy EKG) was developed for primary care.
- Bluetooth connectivity and machine learning algorithms support the device's functionality.
- Readings from the Handy EKG were compared against a conventional 12-lead ECG in volunteer participants.
Main Results:
- The Handy EKG successfully provided readings comparable to lead one of a 12-lead ECG.
- A high degree of similarity (96%) in wave morphology, amplitude, and duration was observed between the devices.
- The device demonstrated potential for continuous monitoring and mobile connectivity in various healthcare settings.
Conclusions:
- The developed Handy EKG platform is safe and operates with good quality.
- The device provides ECG results equivalent to conventional methods in most cases, particularly for single-lead monitoring.
- Its portability and connectivity make it suitable for primary care and intrahospital use.
Abstract:
Background Cardiovascular diseases constitute the majority of noncommunicable disease deaths worldwide. In Honduras, cardiovascular diseases represent the fifth cause of death among individuals aged 45 to 49 years, while 20% of emergency room visits are due to cerebrovascular events, heart failure, and acute myocardial infarction. Methodology A low-cost three-lead electrocardiograph (ECG) (Handy EKG) was designed and manufactured for primary care. The device is supported by Bluetooth connectivity and machine learning. Device readings were collected from volunteers and compared to those obtained with a conventional 12-lead ECG. Results The device provided readings of lead one of a TDOU model CMS600G 12-lead ECG to monitor and diagnose bradyarrhythmia and tachyarrhythmias. Overall, 96% (49) of the readings showed a similarity in morphology, amplitude, and duration of waves, segments, and complexes compared to a 12-lead ECG. The device showed potential for application in primary care and intrahospital settings due to its continuous monitoring capabilities, portability, and possible connectivity with mobile devices. Conclusions The results indicate that the designed platform is safe, offers good quality in its operation at all levels, and provides ECG results equivalent to those of a conventional ECG in most cases (considering only one lead).
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