ECG Core Laboratory
The ECG Core Lab provides centralised electrocardiogram processing and interpretation for research studies, with ISO 9001:2015 certification maintained since 2003. We support national and international clinical trials from design consultation through to final data analysis and reporting.
Core Lab Services
Comprehensive ECG processing and analysis for clinical trials and epidemiological studies.
ECG Data Management
Secure storage and retrieval of study ECGs in electronic and paper formats. Database systems supporting endpoint determination and serial comparison.
Automated Interpretation
ECG interpretation using the Glasgow Program with reports reviewed by experienced staff.
Blinded Measurements
Independent, blinded ECG measurement and interpretation for research endpoints.
Quality Feedback
Feedback to study centres on ECG recording quality and data accuracy.
Research Consultation
Support with endpoint discussions and electrocardiology aspects of study design.
How We Support Trials
From protocol development to final analysis, we provide end-to-end ECG support.
Trial Design Consultation
Support with clinical endpoint discussions and electrocardiology aspects of trial design, including ECG-related inclusion/exclusion criteria.
Site Training
Training courses for nurses and technicians, online resources, and ongoing support to ensure consistent ECG quality across trial sites.
Data Analysis
Minnesota coding, serial comparison, interval measurement, and custom analysis reports tailored to trial requirements.
Trial Lifecycle Support
Our involvement typically spans the entire trial lifecycle.
Setup
- Protocol review
- Endpoint definition
- Site requirements
- Training materials
Training
- Site certification
- Equipment checks
- Quality standards
- Documentation
During Trial
- ECG receipt & QC
- Automated analysis
- Quality feedback
- Ongoing support
Close-out
- Final database
- Minnesota coding
- Statistical output
- Archive
Current & Recent Studies
The Core Lab actively supports national and international clinical trials and epidemiological studies.
Epidemiological
- AIRWAVE
- Scottish Family Health Study
- Whitehall II Phase 12
Collaborative
- British Regional Heart Study
- Tromsø Study
- Leiden 85+
- ELSA-Brasil
- Moli-sani
COVID-Related
- COVID-HEART
- CISCO-19
What We Provide
The Core Lab handles secure central interpretation, storage and retrieval of ECGs used in clinical trials. Benefits include improved accuracy through computerised analysis and standardised procedures performed by trained specialists.
- Secure central ECG database
- Standardised interpretation protocols
- Minnesota coding for epidemiological studies
- Serial ECG comparison for change detection
- Blinded measurements for endpoint adjudication
- Quality feedback to trial centres
- Experienced research staff
Extensive Trial Experience
The ECG Core Lab has supported clinical trials since the 1990s, including landmark studies such as WOSCOPS (West of Scotland Coronary Prevention Study). Our team has experience across:
- Cardiovascular outcome trials
- Epidemiological studies
- Drug safety (QT/QTc) studies
- Device trials
- COVID-related cardiac studies
- Multi-centre international trials
Accepted Formats
We accept ECGs in both electronic and paper formats, managing database storage and retrieval to support endpoint determination and serial comparisons.
“Any problems addressed and sorted promptly. No complaints.”
— Trial Partner Feedback