The use of cross-correlation function for the alignment of ECG waveforms and rejection of extrasystoles

Abstract

The cross-correlation function for alignment of ECG waveforms and rejection of artifacts was studied. ECG waveforms were recorded and digitized (10-bit resolution) at 1.28 KHz and were processed with a CDC 6600 computer. The cross-correlation function was calculated using the cross spectrum and the fast Fourier transform algorithm. The maximum value of the cross-correlation function and the time location of that value were searched for (a) the similarity between the waveforms (for elimination of extrasystoles), and (b) measuring the relative time delay (for the waveform's alignment in the averaging process) between the ECG waveforms. Prior to the correlation procedure each of the ECG waveforms was filtered through a nonrecursive digital bandpass filter. Experiments with various filters indicated that when low-frequency cutoff at 30 Hz and high-frequency cutoff at 250 Hz were used the maximum value of the cross-correlation function was higher than 0.9 for most of our recorded waveforms and more accurate results were obtained.