Biotronik’s device helps doctors remotely monitor patients’ hearts

Biotronik has announced the US launch of CardioMessenger Smart, a portable monitoring device that keeps pacemaker, implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), and insertable cardiac monitor (ICM) patients connected to their doctors

CardioMessenger Smart is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved device that provides secure, fully automatic transmission of information from a patient's cardiac implant to their physician, according to the company.

The information that the device can transfer includes daily, automatic reports and fully customisable alerts that can be programmed to the physician's specifications.

Niraj Varma, in reference to the 2015 Heart Rhythm Society Expert Consensus Statement on remote monitoring, said: "The clinical and economic benefits of remote monitoring have been well established over a decade of clinical studies. But these benefits are only realised if patients consistently use the technology.

“When we make the remote monitoring process easy for patients, we increase the likelihood of patient adherence, which has been demonstrated to improve health outcomes." Varma was lead investigator for the landmark TRUST Trial, which laid the foundation for the guidelines, and co-chair of the HRS committee.

The portability of CardioMessenger Smart helps ensure patient compliance and the consistent transmission of data necessary for physicians to identify and prevent potential cardiac events, according to Biotronik.

Marlou Janssen, president of Biotronik, said: "Biotronik pioneered modern wireless remote monitoring technologies in the year 2000 and we continue to invest in advancements that make life more enjoyable for patients living with cardiac conditions.”