Automatic analysis of ambulatory ECG records

Fully automatic or semi-automatic analysis of ambulatory ECG records is a method of dealing with the enormous processing problems posed by 24 h surface ECG recording. Successful automation of 'book-keeping' and event detection has been realized, but automation of event diagnosis and presentation of the final report remains problematic. To date, the reliable detection of ventricular ectopic complexes has received much emphasis, but many other features which may reflect the arrhythmia substrate are not routinely analysed. Future developments may require consideration of this area. Regardless of the recording and analysis system, and regardless of the application, human involvement with data interpretation remains indispensable.