Work

Patient-initiated transmissions in remote monitoring of cardiac implantable electronic devices: Evaluating volume, clinical value, and short message service-based strategy to reduce unnecessary transmissions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background RM has been shown to improve clinical outcomes compared to traditional in-office follow-up and has seen rapid adoption. However, most RM transmissions are nonactionable, contributing to clinical workload. Many CIEDs allow patient-initiated transmissions, which are frequently nonactionable. More efficient strategies are needed to manage this burden without compromising patient safety. Objective This study aimed to describe the reasons behind patient-initiated transmissions in remote monitoring (RM) of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) and assess the impact of a simple SMS-based intervention to reduce unnecessary transmissions. Methods At Helsinki University Hospital in 2024, each RM transmission was evaluated for its cause and resulting clinical action. Patient-initiated transmissions were analyzed for indications and outcomes. Beginning in June 2024, patients who sent transmissions without a clear medical reason received an SMS explaining RM procedures and device functionality. The effect of this intervention on transmission volume was measured. Results 4020 CIEDs produced 8182 RM transmissions. Of the 8182 transmissions, 2268 (27.7%) were patient-initiated, with an average of 0.049 transmissions per device per month. Among 1234 transmissions triggered by symptoms or unknown reasons, 85.0% were clinically nonactionable. Only 3.6% led to an in-office visit. After implementing the SMS intervention, the frequency of asymptomatic patient-initiated transmissions decreased by 31.2% (p = 0.008). Conclusions Patient-initiated transmissions significantly contribute to RM workload, though most do not lead to clinical action. A simple SMS-based strategy effectively reduced nonactionable transmissions, enhancing the efficiency of RM workflows.

Source: Heart Rhythm O2

DOI: 10.1016/j.hroo.2025.10.011

Authors: Jaakko Huovinen, Jarkko Karvonen, Aapo Aro, Markus Sane

Institutions: University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Cardiac pacing and defibrillation studies

Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,150