Development of real-time ECG signal monitoring system for telemedicine application

Abstract

This work presents the development of low cost, portable real-time Electrocardiogram (ECG) signal monitoring system with abnormality detection capability. The 3-lead Electrocardiogram device takes the physical pulse input using electrodes stuck to the arms and right leg of the patient under observation. The ECG signal is processed by the microcontroller AT89S52 in the portable wireless unit to count the heart beat for a duration of one minute and the Heart Rate is displayed on LCD display. The amplitude and intervals of some critical components are obtained, processed and displayed in a graphical user interface. If an abnormality is detected in the ECG signal, an alert SMS is sent by the system to the doctor through GSM modem to enable him to take appropriate protective measures. The system is intended to use for telemedicine application. Further, the system can be improved to monitor multiple physiological signals and to allow patient mobility by transmitting signals wirelessly.