Computer Aided ECG Interpretation

Abstract

Little more than 20 years ago, Pipberger wrote a computer program designed to screen normal ECGs. His was the first significant attempt to apply computer technology to the interpretation of electrocardiograms [1]. Fifteen years later, 4 million (5 percent) of the electrocardiograms taken in the United States were interpreted by computer, and the usage of computer-read ECGs is increasing at a 12 percent rate per year. The latest versions of ECG computers not only help physicians interpret ECG tracings, they also print reports and provide bookkeeping and management support [2, 3]. Let’s look at how this field has developed, assess current user benefits, and attempt some predictions.