Comparison of techniques for examining long-term ECG recordings.

The Holter superimposition method was compared with the Argus/H computer system and the Stein/Peterson frozen display technique in the analysis of 94 long-term ambulatory ECG recordings using technical staff experienced with each analysis procedure. The use of the Holter superimposition method resulted in a failure of detection of 33-66 percent of ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias as compared to the two other computer-based playback systems. The Argus/H system and the frozen display method of Stein and Peterson were comparable with respect to ventricular arrhythmia detection, but the frozen display method was superior to the Argus/H system with respect to the detection of supraventricular arrhythmias.