Remote Follow-Up of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators: Technology, Patient Management, Integration with Electronic Records, and ICD Product Surveillance

Abstract

In this chapter, the authors introduce some concepts about the remote follow-up of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD). Even if this type of remote monitoring system is relatively new, literature has demonstrated the utilization in clinical practice and during the last few years, the medical industry has provided different devices. Starting from the background, some models of utilizations are presented, focusing on the description of the main functions provided by some devices offered on the market. Next the motivations for which remote follow-up is needed are explored; a better management of the patient is described in several studies, and the integration of clinical information from monitoring devices in Electronic Medical Records is presented as the important step in order to provide comprehensive clinical information about the patient. Also, economic issues are shown. Then, some experiences realized in U.S. are explored, and at last, a number of questions are proposed to the discussion as contribution to the next research. Some Italian recent experiences in the field of remote monitoring and home care of patients with heart failure with and without implantable devices are reported.