HYBRID SYSTEM FOR FAST DATA REDUCTION OF LONG-TERM BLOOD-PRESSURE RECORDINGS

Fast analysis of long-term intra-arterial blood-pressure recordings can be approached in various ways. We describe a low cost system, consisting of a hybrid preprocessor and a minicomputer, which can either perform fast data reduction, producing simple statistical information to aid patient management, or be used as the basis of a more comprehensive signal processing facility for research purposes. The preprocessor saves computer time by detecting and measuring the systolic and diastolic points, thereby allowing recordings to be processed 25 times faster than they were recorded. Attention has been given to the special problems of calibration and artefact rejection. Data conversion accuracy was found to be within 2% on a typical recording. The system can run automatically if required to ease the task of routine blood-pressure tape processing. © 1979 IFMBE.