ST-Segment Deviation Graph for ECG Lead Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for displaying ST-segment deviations in electrocardiogram (ECG) signals are cumbersome and do not effectively allow clinicians to quickly assess changes or trends in a patient's condition, particularly for multiple leads, making it difficult to determine if ischemia is worsening or improving.

Innovation Solution

Graphical representation of ST-segment deviations using bar graphs or line graphs, with separate axes for leads, highlighting differences between baseline and current values, and optional threshold lines to facilitate quick evaluation of trends and alarm settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If numerical values of ST-segment deviations are displayed for multiple leads, then complete information is provided, but it becomes difficult to integrate and assess trends quickly

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveST-segment deviation informationVSAvoidAssessment of trends
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the display of ST-segment deviation data from a one-dimensional numerical format to a two-dimensional graphical format. The first dimension represents the magnitude of deviation values, while the second dimension represents different ECG leads. This dimensional transformation allows clinicians to visually integrate information across multiple leads and quickly assess trends through graphical patterns rather than numerically processing multiple values.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Loss of information

If ST-segment deviation values are displayed for multiple leads, then comprehensive monitoring is achieved, but integration of information becomes cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveST-segment deviation dataVSAvoidInformation integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple ST-segment deviation values from different ECG leads into a single integrated graphical display. Instead of presenting separate numerical values that require mental integration, the invention combines all lead data into one visual representation where relationships between leads and deviation magnitudes are simultaneously visible, eliminating the need for separate information processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If numerical display of ST-segment deviations is used, then precise values are provided, but quick assessment of changes and trends is hindered

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveST-segment deviation valuesVSAvoidTime to assess changes
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs visual encoding techniques including color variations to represent different aspects of ST-segment deviation data. Different colors can indicate different leads, different magnitudes of deviation, or trends in changes over time. This visual encoding allows clinicians to rapidly perceive changes and trends through color patterns while maintaining access to precise numerical values when needed, significantly reducing assessment time compared to unencoded numerical displays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Data Source

PatentUS8060193B2Systems and methods for graphic display of ST-segment deviation
Publication Date: 2011.11.15 SHENZHEN MINDRAY BIO MEDICAL ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US8060193B2 patent drawing
  • US8060193B2 patent drawing
  • US8060193B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods are provided for monitoring a patient and graphically representing ST-segment deviations. A receiver acquires, from a plurality of leads, electrocardiogram (ECG) signals that each includes an ST-segment. A processor processes the ECG signals to determine baseline and current ST-segment deviations relative to an isoelectric value. A display module displays a graph that includes a first axis representing ST-segment deviation values and a second axis representing the plurality of leads. At each location along the second axis representing a respective lead, the graph displays a first set of graphic indicia representing the baseline ST-segment deviations and a second set of graphic indicia representing the current ST-segment deviations. In certain embodiments, the graphic indicia are represented by bar graphs. In other embodiments, the graphic indicia are represented by symbols that may be connected by line segments.