  We propose a novel algorithm to recover fetal electrocardiogram (ECG) for
both the fetal heart rate analysis and morphological analysis of its waveform
from two or three trans-abdominal maternal ECG channels. We design an algorithm
based on the optimal-shrinkage and the nonlocal Euclidean median under the
wave-shape manifold model. For the fetal heart rate analysis, the algorithm is
evaluated on publicly available database, 2013 PhyioNet/Computing in Cardiology
Challenge, set A. For the morphological analysis, we propose to simulate
semi-real databases by mixing the MIT-BIH Normal Sinus Rhythm Database and
MITDB Arrhythmia Database. For the fetal R peak detection, the proposed
algorithm outperforms all algorithms under comparison. For the morphological
analysis, the algorithm provides an encouraging result in recovery of the fetal
ECG waveform, including PR, QT and ST intervals, even when the fetus has
arrhythmia. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work focusing on
recovering the fetal ECG for morphological analysis from two or three channels
with an algorithm potentially applicable for continuous fetal
electrocardiographic monitoring, which creates the potential for long term
monitoring purpose.
