The Algorithms Modeling Experiment for Automatic Marking of Single-Lead Electrocardiogram-Based Hypoxic Tests

Abstract

The current moment requires new approaches to patients’ rehabilitation, in particular, the novel monitoring technologies enabling the assessment of the functionality and fitness of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Hypoxic tests allow for estimating a person’s tolerability to hypoxic conditions and, eventually, for making conclusions about their fitness. Among these tests are the Stange test and the Genchi test. The important information is the duration of the breath hold. There are methods of direct respiratory signal measurement and indirect ones to control it. Breathing affects the electrocardiogram, which can be used to reconstruct the respiratory signal. Electrocardiogram registration is now a routine procedure performed in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and, due to various options for modern portable single- and multileadelectrocardiographs, even at home by the patients themselves. There are several types of algorithms for obtaining the cardiorespiratory information that rely on different elements of the electrocardiogram signal. This report describes the model experiment developing the optimal algorithm of hypoxic test automatization with the electrocardiogram processing in real-time conditions. We have developed the software called “Harmony” for breathing control during hypoxic test which suggests the starting moment for breath hold. Since the period of breath hold during hypoxic test has specific characteristics on the electrocardiogram that are substantially different from other breathing phases, the moment of finishing the breath hold can be determined automatically. This allows us to automate hypoxic tests.