Analysis of H Wave of Ballistocardiogram

The observations on which this analysis is based include simultaneous ballistocardiographic and electrocardiographic tracings on subjects with complete heart block, and auricular fibrillation. Deflections of the ballistocardiogram similar to the H wave were seen to occur at a constant time interval after P in the absence of a ventricular systole. However, in fibrillation H waves were also found occasionally. A G wave of the ballistocardiogram is described and the authors discuss the part played by auricular systole, the apex thrust, and venous pressure pulses in producing the G and H waves.