Validation of novel single spot photoplethysmography monitoring device to measure the autonomic status of the individual

Abstract

Background: In this study, the validation of electrocardiogram (ECG) and photoplethysmography (PPG) signals is performed. The pulse readings are recorded for ten healthy volunteers, and simultaneously ECG readings were recorded for the duration of 30 min. Aims and Objectives: Pulse rate variability (PRV) is an approach used to assess the changes in the autonomic nervous system of an individual. The primary method of deriving the PRV is to acquire the PPG signal. The acquired PPG signal is validated with ECG signals to ensure that single spot PPG monitoring device can be used as an alternative measurement to heart rate variability (HRV). Materials and Methods: With the approval from Ethics Committee, ten healthy subjects, aged from 18 to 24, took part in this study. The ECG and PPG readings were recorded in the early morning between 7 and 9 a.m. During PPG recording process, the peak to peak interval from PPG signals was monitored. Simultaneously, the ECG readings were recorded from RMS Vagus HRV Software. The RR interval from ECG signals was monitored during the ECG recording process. Results: Both ECG and PPG readings were monitored, and a close accuracy with an average percentage error for beats per minute was around 7%, and RR interval was around 5% which was achieved. Conclusion: With the development of single spot PPG monitoring devices can be used as an alternative measurement to HRV even during non-stationary conditions. PPG sensors can be placed on fingertip, wrist which offers more flexibility to the users. Furthermore, with the development of wearable devices for monitoring biomedical signals suggested that it is possible to monitor pulse rate through PPG signals due to the simplicity of PPG waveforms.