Implementation of the Louvain program for exercise ECG analysis on a microprocessor system.

Several years ago we developed a computer system for the processing of exercise ECGs: the Louvain program for exercise ECG analysis which runs on a minicomputer "Modcomp Classic" and processes XYZ data remotely collected on digital cartridge at the exercise room. This off-line batch procedure is time consuming for the technician (reading of cartridge), but theoretically could be fast. Our experience shows that the results of the exercise test are provided to the referring physician from one day to one week after the procedure because of delays at different levels. The implementation of the programs in a stand-alone unit can produce the results one minute after the end of the test. This solution obviously is more satisfactory for routine clinical testing.