News in brief from the world of cardiology
A recent German study has shown the high diagnostic accuracy for a patient-activated, single-lead Omron Heart Scan (HCG-801-E).
In the study carried out in four university hospitals in Germany, 508 consecutively enrolled patients with a clinical indication for an ECG, were asked to record a short-term ECG directly after their standard 12-lead procedure.
The ECGs were analysed by a single, double-blinded observer for rhythm, intervals, amplitudes and conduction disturbances. The patient-activated system was able to detect over 90% of abnormalities in the 12-lead ECG, including ST-T wave changes and bundle branch block. Patients found the system easy to use and it had a high diagnostic accuracy for the detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) and other arrhythmias. It is hoped the system will also help to improve rapid and accurate diagnosis of transient ECG changes.
