The ECGs I micro-fabricate are designed to be flexible, stretchable and wireless circuits that can be applied to the skin directly. The device is encased in a conformal, silicon-like substrate, that allows the ECG to be attached with the electrodes. Each electrode has been previously measured and verified that it will be correctly placed for an accurate reading. Prototyping this ECG/electrode device allows the user to mount the prototype directly to the patient without having to attach and wire ten other electrodes. This prototype solves the issue that comes about when a doctor, nurse or emergency medical technician must attach a traditional 12-lead ECG that requires sufficient knowledge and experience to place each electrode accurately and precisely in order to achieve an accurate reading. In my fabricated device, the ECG is wired directly to the three most crucial electrodes placed at V2, V3 and V4 based on the traditional precordial electrode placement for a 12-lead ECG. By covering these three positions, my research team and I can ensure we achieve an accurate reading, and will find the correct placement due to the compact design with pre-placed electrodes. Another benefit of this prototype is its flexibility. This allows the circuit to be more durable when being picked-up, transferred to the patient, and then removed; this may also allow for multiple applications whereas conventional electrodes can only be used once. This prototype is currently in the preliminary stages of testing and will hopefully be implemented into medical practice in the future.https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/uresposters/1245/thumbnail.jp
