Algorithm for online detection of HRV from coherent ECG and carotid pulse wave

Abstract

Measurement and analysis of Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is progressively gaining attention as it enables a clinical and non-invasive system to assess human physiology. QRS complex of an ECG forms the basis of HRV, but literature also establishes its relation with carotid artery pulsation. HRV analysis is either simulated or done offline using ECG database. An attempt has been made here to develop a computer-based dual channel acquisition system for online detection of HRV from real time simultaneously acquired ECG and carotid waveforms of human subjects. An algorithm is developed in MATLAB to acquire and filter both signals simultaneously. Algorithm to find online threshold-based maxima and difference between the adjacent RR peaks is also made and tested to calculate time domain HRV parameters. Close correlation is found in HRV data calculated from ECG and carotid signal. Carotid pulsation is easy to acquire using simple electronics and thus can be potentially used for HRV analysis compared to ECG acquisition. The measurement unit developed is simple and relatively cost effective.