Mobile health in cardiology: a review of currently available medical apps and equipment for remote monitoring. (1st September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Treskes, Roderick Willem; van der Velde, Enno Tjeerd; Barendse, Rogier; Bruining, Nico
• Is Part Of: Expert review of medical devices. Volume 13:Number 9(2016)
• Page Start: 823
• Page End: 830
• Publication Date: 2016-09-01
• Subjects: mHealth -- remote monitoring -- health care costs -- clinical effectiveness -- mobile apps -- ICDs -- vital signs -- cardiovascular imaging; Medical instruments and apparatus -- Periodicals; 610.28
• DOI: 10.1080/17434440.2016.1218277
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1743-4440

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction : Recent developments in implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) and smartphone technology have increased the possibilities for remote monitoring. It is the purpose of this review to give an overview of these new possibilities. Areas covered : Remote monitoring in ICD allows for early detection of lead fractures and remote follow-up of patients. Possible limitations are the lack of standardization and the possible unsafety of the data stored on the ICD. Secondly, remote monitoring of health parameters using smartphone compatible wearables and smartphone medical apps is addressed. Possible limitations include the fact that the majority of smartphone apps are unregulated by the regulatory authorities and privacy issues such as selling of app-generated data to third parties. Lastly, clinical studies with smartphone apps are discussed. Expert commentary : New technologies in ICDs and smartphones have the potential to be used for remote monitoring. However, unreliability of smartphone technology, inadequate legislation and lack of reimbursement impede implementation.