Optimization of electrode positions of a wearable ECG monitoring system for efficient and effective detection of acute myocardial infarction

Acute myocardial infarction is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality all over the world. Therefore, it is of very high importance to detect myocardial infarction effectively and accurately in its early phase with an efficient method. Electrocardiogram provides a non-invasive and inexpensive way for diagnosis of myocardial infarction through seeking for the ischemic syndromes in ECG, e.g., the elevation or depression of ST-segment. However, the standard 12 lead ECG does not examine the heart from all aspects. On the other hand, the comprehensive body surface potential mapping system is nearly impossible to be wearable. In the present project a wearable ECG monitoring system for detection of acute myocardial infarction is optimized with respect to electrode positions. The optimal electrode configuration suggested in the present study includes 2 pairs of electrodes and a high sensitivity of 98% is achieved in the sense of “no infarction is missed” in the validation.