A Compact, Microprocessor-Based ECG ST-Segment Analyzer for the Operating Room

We describe a microprocessor-based device for analyzing ST-segment changes of the electrocardiogram in the operating room during general anesthesia. The device identifies significant components of the ECG waveform, detects arrhythmias, and performs ST-segment measurements. Measured values of heart rate, QRS duration, R-wave magnitude, and ST-segment level, slope, area, and index are selectively displayed on a front-panel numeric display and can be recorded in analog form with an FM tape recorder. Provided are details of the battery-operated hardware, the ST-analysis software, and the results of 60 h of clinical trials. Possible uses are proposed for trend analysis during anesthesia.