Non-invasive real-time autonomic function characterization during surgery via continuous Poincaré quantification of heart rate variability

Heart rate variability (HRV) provides an excellent proxy for monitoring of autonomic function, but the clinical utility of such characterization has not been investigated. In a clinical setting, the baseline autonomic function can reflect ability to adapt to stressors such as anesthesia. No monitoring tool has yet been developed that is able to track changes in HRV in real time. This study is a proof-of-concept for a non-invasive, real-time monitoring model for autonomic function via continuous Poincaré quantification of HRV dynamics. Anonymized heart rate data of 18 healthy individuals (18–45 years) undergoing minor procedures and 18 healthy controls (21–35 years) were analyzed. Patients underwent propofol and fentanyl anesthesia, and controls were at rest. Continuous heart rate monitoring was carried out from before aesthetic induction to the end of the surgical procedure. HRV components (sympathetic and parasympathetic) were extracted and analyzed using Poincaré quantification, and a real-time assessment tool was developed. In the patient group, a significant decrease in the sympathetic and parasympathetic components of HRV was observed following anesthesia (SD1: p = 0.019; SD2: p = 0.00027). No corresponding change in HRV was observed in controls. HRV parameters were modelled into a real-time graph. Using the monitoring technique developed, autonomic changes could be successfully visualized in real-time. This could provide the basis for a novel, fast and non-invasive method of autonomic assessment that can be delivered at the point of care.