Remote ballistocardiography (rBCG)

Remote ballistocardiography (rBCG) is the remote form of ballistocardiography (BCG). BCG traditionally uses scales or beds to detect subtle movements in the body caused by heartbeats. As the name suggests, rBCG does the same thing but non-invasively, typically through use of a device.

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rBCG inputs and measures subtle body movements that are caused by heart activity (e.g., ejection of blood into the vasculature), usually coming from the head and neck. These movements can be detected in several ways, including through:
Videos. rPPG can track parts of the face or head using a video scan.

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Sensors. Some sensors contained within wearable devices can detect subtle body movements.

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Once the data is captured through these mediums, rBCG analyzes information about somebody’s heart rate, heart rate variability, and other types of cardiac parameters.

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rBCG is advantageous in that it is non-invasive and remote, meaning neither physical contact with the body nor an office visit are required. As such, it can play a unique role in remote healthcare settings or in unique situations like sleep studies.