High sensitivity PCG transducer for extended frequency applications

A transducer for improved detection of heart sounds in the high-frequency ranges (up to 2 kHz) is described. The transducer is a piezoelectric-type accelerometer which presents a low load to the chest wall, providing greater sensitivity at high frequencies as compared to several commercially available microphones. The transducer has good noise characteristics, has flexible design parameters, and is cost effective. The accelerometer has been used for acquisition of low-level diastolic heart sounds in the detection of coronary artery disease. Successful preliminary results indicate the usefulness of this transducer for other high-frequency applications in phonocardiography.<<ETX>>