ECG not requiring two hands could be used by pilots, athletes and the military – ScienceDaily

Dr. Raffaele De Lucia, of the University Hospital of Pisa (Italy), author of the study, said: "Mobile ECG devices represent a major opportunity to detect atrial fibrillation, the most common heart rhythm disorder, and so prevent strokes and reduce hospital admissions ECG devices require both hands, but what if there are symptoms behind the wheel? "

This study is the first to show that the ear can be used for ECG signal detection. The study included 32 consecutive healthy volunteers (cardiology students and nurses). An ECG was first performed according to the standard method, which uses the index and major of each hand. A second ECG was performed using the index and middle fingers of the left hand and a clip attached to the left ear.

All ECGs were printed and badyzed by the device and by two cardiologists blind to the method used. No difference was detected in the ECG results obtained by the two methods.

Dr. De Lucia said, "We have shown how the ear can be used as an innovative anatomical site for the detection of the ECG signal in healthy adults." We are currently conducting further studies for validate this method in patients with cardiac arrhythmia. "

The authors stated that the results pave the way for a new type of single electrode ECG wearable device that leaves a free hand, which facilitates its use. In addition to detecting previously undiagnosed atrial fibrillation, the device could be used to badess physical performance during exercise, prevent fainting, and control the heart during the onset of symptoms such as dizziness and shortness of breath. Patients already diagnosed with heart problems such as atrial fibrillation could also use it to monitor their condition.

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