Remote monitoring of ICDs and CRTs

Cardiac implantable electronic devices are increasing in prevalence and functionality. Post-implant follow-up is important for monitoring both device function and patient condition. However, practice is inconsistent. For example, ICD follow-up schedules vary from 3 months to yearly according to facility and physician preference and availability of resources. Recommended follow-up schedules impose significant burden. Importantly, no surveillance occurs between follow-up visits. In contrast, implantable devices with automatic remote monitoring capability provide a means for performing constant surveillance, with the ability to identify salient problems rapidly. Results from large randomized prospective trials of all types of CIEDs from different manufacturers, and conducted in different countries, consistently indicate superior performance to conventional care for achieving the current follow-up goals of patient retention and early problem discovery, improving patient safety and convenience, yet promoting clinic efficiencies. Thus, automatic remote home monitoring is a transforming technology in the evolution of CIEDs, and is poised for remarkable gains in disease management.