Determining heart rate variation: a comparison between direct results from V6 of the ECG and time domain, frequency domain and non-liniar analysis

Abstract

Oscillation around a mean value is found in the intervals between consecutive heartbeats (R-R intervals). This oscillation is known as heart rate variability (HRV). Various methods can be used to estimate HRV, but the extent to which agreement exists between the results obtained by the different methods is not known. In this study HRV, as determined directly from the ECG, is compared to results obtained by time domain analysis, frequency domain analysis, Poincaré graphs and fractal analysis. Results showed that, in individuals with low HRV values, the results obtained by time domain analysis, frequency domain analysis, Poincaré graphs and alpha 1 of fractal analysis are comparable to those calculated directly from the ECG. However, time domain analysis, frequency domain analysis, Poincaré graphs and fractal analysis are less sensitive than direct ECG measurements in individuals with higher HRV.