Clinical monitoring of the heart health of stroke patients is usually done by electrocardiogram (ECG) recording, a non-invasive method that requires electrodes in contact with the patient's skin to obtain the signal. However, since specialists are required to place the electrodes, its use is restrictive. Contactless alternatives for study of heart conditions in less restrictive way have been investigated for decades.
This project aims to develop novel, non-invasive methods for detecting cardiac and non-cardiac disease in stroke patients using the ballistocardiogram (BCG) signal, allowing for patient monitoring without transfer to clinical settings. The objective of the project is to answer important questions in current research in biomedical engineering, such as whether the resolution of a BCG is sufficient for the detection of cardiac conditions and whether it can become the preferred method for monitoring heart health from home.
To achieve this objective, the project proposes the development of a portable prototype for the acquisition of BCG signals, as well as the development of novel algorithms that allow for the detection and classification of cardiac arrhythmias and episodes of sleep apnea from these signals. The project will be based on three different stages: design and implementation of the prototype, obtaining new diagnostic support algorithms based on ballistocardiogram signals, and the connection strategy at the prototype to deliver the information to the specialist doctors.
This is a multidisciplinary project that combines expertise in bioengineering, health sciences, electronics, and telecommunications. This proposal also aims to transfer knowledge to the host institution and provide training for the candidate in advanced techniques. The results have the potential to significantly improve the capacity of home health monitoring and the application of eHealth knowledge. This project is aligned with the EU strategy for the protection of human health.
