ECG data compression techniques-a unified approach

Electrocardiogram (ECG) compression techniques are compared, and a unified view of these techniques is established. ECG data compression schemes are presented in two major groups: direct data compression and transformation methods. The direct data compression techniques are ECG differential pulse code modulation (DPCM) and entropy coding, AZTEC, Turning-point, CORTES, Fan and SAPA algorithms, peak-picking, and cycle-to-cycle compression methods. The transformation methods include Fourier, Walsh, and Karhunen-Loeve transforms. The theoretical bases behind the direct ECG data compression schemes are presented and classified into three categories: tolerance-comparison compression, DPCM, and entropy coding methods. A framework for evaluation and comparison of ECG compression schemes is presented.