Deep Conv-LSTM Network for Arrhythmia Detection using ECG Data

Abstract

In the evolving realm of medical diagnostics, electrocardiogram (ECG) data stands as a cornerstone for cardiac health assessment. This research introduces a novel approach, leveraging the capabilities of a Deep Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory (Conv-LSTM) network for the early and accurate detection of arrhythmias using ECG data. Traditionally, cardiac anomalies have been diagnosed through heuristic means, often requiring intricate scrutiny and expertise. However, the Deep Conv-LSTM model proposed herein addresses the inherent limitations of traditional methods by amalgamating the spatial feature extraction capability of convolutional neural networks (CNN) with the temporal sequence learning capacity of LSTM networks. Initial results derived from a diverse dataset, comprising myriad ECG waveform anomalies, delineated an enhancement in accuracy, reducing false positives and facilitating timely interventions. Notably, the model showcased adaptability in handling the burstiness of ECG signals, reflecting various heart rhythms, and the perplexity inherent in diagnosing subtle arrhythmic events. Additionally, the model's ability to discern longer, more complex patterns alongside transient anomalies offers potential for broader applications in telemetry and continuous patient monitoring systems. It is anticipated that this innovative fusion of CNN and LSTM architectures will usher a paradigm shift in automated arrhythmia detection, bridging the chasm between technology and the intricate nuances of cardiac physiology, thus improving patient outcomes.