In the world of arrhythmias, the 21st century has brought advances not only in materials and types of treatments, but also in the possibility of remote monitoring and control of the functioning of devices implanted by specialists – pacemakers, resynchronizers, transvenous and subcutaneous defibrillators, and subcutaneous Holters.
Remote monitoring consists of the ability, virtually identical to an in-person review, to evaluate the functioning (but not the stimulation parameters) of the aforementioned devices.
Nowadays, all implantable device manufacturers have a remote monitoring system, which consists of a small transmitter that the patient takes home after surgery. As simple as connecting it to the home power grid like any other appliance, it communicates with the device that the patient has implanted. This information is confidential and only authorized professionals have access to it. The transmission of the functioning of the system components is very useful for doctors who carry out the monitoring, since alerts can be programmed in order to prevent or anticipate complications related to the patient's underlying pathology as well as failures of the implanted device. Another advantage lies in the convenience that the patient has of not having to undergo face-to-face check-ups and follow-ups so frequently. It should be noted, however, that this resource will never be able to replace the face-to-face check-up consultation since remote monitoring, as its name indicates, is only capable of monitoring but does not allow professionals to change the parameters or programming of the devices (constituting a non-limiting factor, since it provides greater security).
It is important to note that remote monitoring has government approval (at national, continental and global levels) and is legislated within the framework of health regulations, complying with all requirements to protect the confidentiality of the data obtained.
Upon discharge from hospital, the patient will receive a standardized, easy-to-read guide to understand what wearing an implantable device entails and the steps to follow for effective remote monitoring that does not entail any added risk.
We recommend that you discuss any doubts or concerns with your specialist doctor and consult with the treating cardiology team.
By Dr. Julian Crosa Temiño