New ECG detects heart rhythm by using signals from ear, hand

A new electrocardiogram (ECG) method has been revealed at EHRA 201, a European Society of Cardiology (ESC) congress. The device uses signals from the ear and hand to check the heart rhythm and does not require two hands. Also, it could be used by drivers, athletes, and the military.Study author Dr Raffaele De Lucia, The University Hospital of Pisa, Italy, said: "Mobile ECG devices present a major opportunity to detect atrial fibrillation, the most common heart rhythm disorder, and thereby prevent strokes and reduce hospitalisation. All commercially available portable ECG devices require both hands, but what if symptoms happen while driving?"This is the first study to show that the ear can be used for ECG signal detection. The study included 32 consecutive healthy volunteers (cardiology students and nurses). An ECG was first performed by the standard method, which uses the index and middle finger of each hand. A second ECG was conducted using the index and middle finger of the left ...