Next-Gen ECG Technology: Dual Lead System Empowered with IoT Connectivity for Comprehensive Cardiac Monitoring

Abstract

The need for Internet of Things (IoT)- oriented, cost-effective Electrocardiogram (ECG) devices that can remotely measure and transmit ECG signals is becoming increasingly apparent. While standard 12-lead ECG monitoring is effective, its bulky and time-consuming nature poses challenges for remote and continuous monitoring. For developing a cost-effective ECG system, Einthoven's six-lead ECGs are effective but need assessment in real-world conditions. Addressing this gap, this study explores performance evaluation of the dual-lead-to-6-lead ECG monitoring method under 50 Hz noise, electrode reuse, and proximal vs. distal placement. Our system incorporates an ECG circuit that records lead I and lead II data and calculates the 6 leads mathematically. A digital notch filter is applied to the data to enhance signal clarity. The study also includes an arrhythmia-detection component that uses the Pan-Tompkins algorithm to identify abnormal cardiac rhythms promptly. A comprehensive performance analysis of 11 healthy patients was conducted. The reference ECG signals were simultaneously recorded using a BIOPAC MP36 data-acquisition system, with Pearson correlation coefficients ranging from 0.81 to 0.89, with the highest in Lead II. Bland-Altman analysis for R-R interval and Heart rate showed average biases of 11.66 and 0.35, respectively. All data points for both R-R interval and heart rate fell within the ±10% acceptability limits. The proposed technology has potential for telemedicine services and remote patient management, offering an effective solution for continuous, remote ECG monitoring.