An approach to QRS complex detection using mathematical morphology.

An approach to QRS complex detection based on mathematical morphology is presented in this communication. QRS complexes are detected by the application of a simple morphological operator. This operator works as a peak-valley extractor and it is controlled by the shape of the structuring element. A set (horizontal line segment) is used as structuring element resulting in very fast execution times. The accuracy of this approach has been tested using a standard ECG library; a sensitivity of 99.38% and a positive predictivity of 99.48% have been achieved.