Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to M P Watts.
This paper describes the methods currently used in Glasgow Royal Infirmary for computer analysis of electrocardiograms. The software is designed to analyse from 3 to 15 simultaneously recorded leads, with facilities for analysis of rhythm and serial changes. Options for Minnesota Code (with serial comparison) and XYZ lead interpretation are available.
In common with all other biomedical equipment, cardiac pacemakers should be routinely tested and serviced. Experience has shown that although they are generally very reliable some faults have occurred that might have been detected by regular testing. A testing protocol is suggested that has two levels, routine tests that check the essential functions of the pacemakers and supplementary tests that check those parameters which are less likely to be of immediate clinical significance. The measurement details and rationale of the tests are described in some detail. Finally, a preliminary evaluation of a test instrument which has been developed specifically for these procedures shows that it is rapid and easy to use and allows a more rigorous standard of testing to be achieved.
Prior to the commissioning of the Phase I redevelopment of Glasgow Royal Infirmary, the need for the development of a new type of resuscitation trolley had been identified by a liaison group consisting of medical, nursing and scientific staff which had been set up to collaborate on the selection and specification of clinical equipment. A design study involving the liaison group and the Product Design Section of the Glasgow School of Art was, therefore, undertaken. This resulted in a basic design which was built in prototype form by the Department of Clinical Physics and Bioengineering for hospital trials. The unit was later taken over commercially.
A system was devised so that a peripheral hospital could transmit electrocardiograms (ECGs) to a central computer for interpretation. The link that transmits both ECGs and reports is provided by the telephone network. Initial results showed that telephone transmission did not significantly affect the accuracy of the ECG interpretation. The centralised computer programme could be much more widely used to provide ECG interpretations. A telephone link would not be justified in health centres, where the demand for ECGs is fairly small, but ECGs recorded at a health centre can be sent to the computer for interpretation and returned the next day. The most cost-effective method of providing computer interpretation for several health centres in a large city would be to have a portable electrocardiograph and transmission facilities, which could be moved from centre to centre.
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