Combinatorial detection of arrhythmia

Three problems that arise from electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation and analysis are presented, followed by algorithmic solutions based on a combinatorial model. First, the beat classification problem is discussed and possible solutions are investigated. Secondly, given the R R-intervals, which can be determined using this combinatorial model, or any Q R S detection algorithm, the heart rate is determined in a statistical manner from which sinus bradycardia and sinus tachycardia are inferred. Finally, a new combinatorial method for measuring heart rate variability (HRV) is presented and an algorithm for detecting atrial fibrillation is described. The developed algorithms were implemented and tests were carried out on records from the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database. The results of the tests are presented and discussed.