Local ECG Annotation Visualization via Brightness Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrophysiological signal display systems obscure the morphology of cardiac electrogram signals with overlaying icons marking local activation times, making it difficult for clinicians to assess signal details.
Innovation Solution
Displaying segments of electrophysiological signals within a specified time window containing local activation times with increased brightness relative to other segments, without overlaying icons, to highlight local activation times while maintaining signal morphology visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If overlaying icons are used to mark local activation times on electrogram traces, then local activation times are clearly indicated, but the morphology of the signal traces is obscured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies brightness changes to the electrogram trace segments instead of using overlaying icons. Specifically, the trace segments within the time window containing the local activation time are displayed with increased brightness, while other segments are displayed with reduced or normal brightness. This allows the local activation time to be clearly indicated through the brightened segments without obscuring the signal morphology, as the underlying trace remains visible rather than being covered by opaque icons.
2Measurement precision
If annotation icons are superimposed on electrogram traces to represent local activation times, then diagnostic information about timing is enhanced, but visual assessment of signal details becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses brightness modulation of the trace segments themselves rather than adding separate annotation icons. The segments containing local activation times are displayed with increased brightness, making them easily identifiable for diagnostic purposes. Simultaneously, the underlying signal morphology remains fully visible within these brightened segments, allowing clinicians to assess both timing and signal details without the obstruction caused by traditional overlaying icons.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional annotation approach (icons placed on top of traces) to a dimensional modification of the trace display itself (brightness variation along the time axis). By encoding the local activation time information through brightness changes in the trace segments rather than through separate graphical markers, the system preserves the continuity and visibility of the signal morphology while still providing clear temporal information.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for electrophysiological measurement involve obtaining signals that indicate cardiac electrical activity by using electrodes in contact with the body tissues of a living patient. These signals are then processed to identify local activation times at the electrodes. The identified local activation times are displayed as traces representing the signals over time on a display screen. The brightness of specific trace segments within a designated time window, encompassing the identified local activation times, may be increased relative to segments outside the time window. The method provides flexibility in signal acquisition, allowing for the use of intracardiac electrogram signals acquired within the heart or electrocardiogram signals acquired from the body surface. This method enhances visibility and enables efficient analysis of cardiac activity traces for diagnostic and monitoring purposes.