On-line microcomputer system for analysis of precordial maps

An inexpensive system was developed for automated on-line analysis of ST segment heights, Q, R, and S heights and areas under these peaks, using an LSI-11 microcomputer. System accuracy was evaluated using a computer graphics technique which enabled magnification and labelling of the computed peaks on 60 maps from 17 patients. To compare the computer with hand analysis, the sigma ST (.06 seconds from S nadir) for 20 maps was calculated by three blinded observers. Correct computer evaluation occurred in all but five of 2058 leads. The mean observer sigma ST was 3.2 millivolts (range 0.77-7.5 mv). Mean inter-observer SD was +/-0.21 mv. The mean computer sigma ST was 3.5 mv (range 0.82-9.3 mv). The spread between computer and observer was +/-0.45 mv. Discrepancies between computer and observer were due to cumulative imprecision in observer measurements. This system has proven to be a practical and economic solution to handling the large volume of data accumulated with serial precordial mapping. It is considerably more precise than conventional hand analysis. Additionally, the system's versatility makes it ideally suited to many clinical and research functions.