Efficient and reliable detection of QRS-segment in ECG signals

Reports a simple and efficient method to detect the QRS-segment in ECG signals. The method suggested by the authors is implemented in two steps. Step I involves the detection of R-peaks which is accomplished after three main operations: bandpass filtering, 3-sample area estimation and M-sample window averaging with thresholding. While the bandpass filtering suppresses the noise, the 3-sample area estimation enhances the the signal to noise ratio (SNR) and hence the detectability of R-peaks. Finally, the M-sample window averaging smooths the R-peak envelopes. The thresholding pinpoints the R-peaks. After R-peaks are detected their location is confirmed in Step II which also marks the location of the Q and S points, resulting in determination of the respective QRS-segments