Recently, a clinically validated relationship between determination of ejection fraction calculated from (1) non-invasive measurement of the systolic time intervals of the ECG and phono-cardiography or carotid artery tracing, and ejection fraction as measured by (2) invasive methods, such as radionuclides or cine-angiography, has been established. The on-going research in the field of electrical bioimpedance has proven clinically valid accuracy of non-invasive measurement of stroke volume and non-invasive measurement of systolic time intervals from measurement of thoracic electrical impedance and its changes. If successful, this Phase I project will prove that through innovative application of the relationships referenced above, a precise measurement of in vivo cardiac chamber size and function becomes cost feasible. Additionally, studies will show that it is possible, within current technologies, to design a relatively low-cost, microprocessor- based instrument which will offer continuous monitoring of stroke volume, ejection fraction and end-diastolic volume non-invasively and for every heart beat. Such a device will have an extensive potential commercial and military application in monitoring the critcally ill patients.STATUS: Project Proceded to Phase II
