R wave detection using Coiflets wavelets

Accurate detection of QRS complexes is important for ECG signal analysis. In this paper, a generic algorithm using Coiflet wavelets is introduced to improve the detection of QRS complexes in arrhythmia ECG Signals that suffer from: 1) non-stationary effects, 2) low signal-to-noise ratio, 3) negative QRS polarities, 4) low QRS amplitudes, and 5) ventricular ectopics. The algorithm achieves high detection rates by using a signal-to-noise ratio threshold instead of predetermined static thresholds. The performance of the algorithm was tested on 48 records of the MIT/BIH Arrhythmia Database. It was shown that this adaptive approach results in accurate detection of the QRS complex and that Coiflet1 achieves better detection rate than the other Coiflet wavelets.