Non-invasive, dynamic tracking of cardiac vulnerability by simultaneous analysis of heart rate variability and T-wave alternans

摘要

A method and an apparatus for the non-invasive, dynamic tracking and diagnosing of cardiac vulnerability to ventricular fibrillation are disclosed. T-wave alternans and heart rate variability are simultaneously evaluated. T-wave alternation is an absolute predictor of cardiac electrical stability. Heart rate variability is a measure of autonomic influence, a major factor in triggering cardiac arrhythmias. By simultaneously analyzing both phenomena, the extent and cause of cardiac vulnerability can be assessed.