BACKGROUND
Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronisation therapy with defibrillators (CRT-D) reduce mortality in certain cardiac patient populations. However, inappropriate shocks pose a problem, having both adverse physical and psychological effects on the patient. The advances in device technology now allow remote monitoring (RM) of devices to replace clinic follow up appointments. This allows real time data to be analysed and actioned and this may improve patient care.
AIM
To determine if RM in patients with an ICD is associated with fewer inappropriate shocks and reduced time to medical assessment.
METHODS
This was a single centre, retrospective observational study, involving 156 patients implanted with an ICD or CRT-D, followed up for 2 years post implant. Both appropriate and inappropriate shocks were recorded along with cause for inappropriate shocks and time to medical assessment.
RESULTS
RM was associated with fewer inappropriate shocks (13.6% clinic
vs
3.9% RM;
P
= 0.030) and a reduced time to medical assessment (15.1 ± 6.8
vs
1.0 ± 0.0 d;
P
< 0.001).
CONCLUSION
RM in patients with an ICD is associated with improved patient outcomes.
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