Multivariate ECG analysis for apnoea–bradycardia detection and characterisation in preterm infants

An analysis of the information content of new features derived from the electrocardiogram of preterm infants is presented. Beat detection and segmentation methods, specifically adapted to this population through evolutionary algorithms, led to an improved sensitivity and positive predictive value. RR interval, R -wave amplitude and QRS duration time-series were extracted at rest ( T 1), before ( T 2), during ( T 3) and after ( T 4) apnoea-bradycardia episodes. Significant variations for T 1- T 2 vs. T 1- T 3 and T 1- T 3 vs. T 1- T 4 were observed. Results reveal changes in the R-wave amplitude and QRS duration at the onset and termination of apnoea-bradycardia episodes which could be useful for their detection and characterisation.