New Approach to Heart Sound Screening in Children by Analog-Digital Circuitry

Abstract

T HIS REPORT is concerned with a new approach to the timing and interpretations of heart sounds by analog-digital circuitry. It presents the background development of this concept as well as an initial evaluation of the feasibility unit. Many observers feel a significant number of children have undiagnosed cardiac lesions. Early detection of congenital heart disease is important since earlier surgical intervention is being advocated for many operable congenital lesions. Identification of unrecognized rheumatic heart disease has marked significance in prevention of recurrences, prophylaxis, and clinical followup. The uncovering of these unrecognized lesions has led to the emphasis on yearly school examinations. A well-supervised heart-sound screening program could be a, useful adjunct to an established school and community health program. Such a program would be c,omplementary to a health progra,m centered around routine examinations by physicians. Significant murmurs,, and to a less extenit, abnormal heart sounds, are the hallmark of heart disease in children. Many elaborate and valuable field studies have been reported regarding methodology of screening and evaluation of taped heart sounds (1-3), and present techniques and equipment continue toi have extensive field trials. The development of an analogdigital analyzing unit t,o scan heart sound signatures appeared as a, reasonable approach in an attempt to differentiate normal heart sounds and murmurs from abnormal sounds and murmurs. Clinical results of present and newer techniques for screening will determine the applicability and advisability of such instrumentational techniques as part of a strong community-oriented health program.