Follow-up: Remote monitoring

Question 1

List 3 advantages of wireless remote programming vs. conventional wand/header programming.

Answer 1

1. Faster retrieval of data
2. Easy optimisation during exercise testing / echo
3. More convenient during surgery (sterility)

Question 2

Why do RF capable devices require a handshake from the header to establish programmer connection?

Answer 2

The RF circuit remains asleep until the header handshake.

This reduces current drain by the RF circuit when not in use.

Question 3

RF telemetry used by generators is called MedRadio and operates at what bandwidth?

Answer 3

402MHz to 405MHz.

This frequency is conducive to transmitting radio signals from within the human body.

Question 4

True / False

Direct communication with a device is possible via remote monitoring.

Answer 4

False.

Remote monitoring only pulls a data review. Direct communication is only possible with a programmer.

Question 5

List 1 major drawback with remote monitoring.

Answer 5

Unable to reprogram any parameters - info is read only.

Question 6

List 5 advantages to having remote monitoring.

Answer 6

1. Extended interval between clinic appointments
2. Data provided is of similar depth to in-clinic follow up
3. Earlier identification and treatment of abnormal events
4. Sheer wealth of data procured can be used for large scale research
5. Reduced cost for clinic and patient

Question 7

On average how much do daily transmissions shorten battery life in Biotronik devices?

Answer 7

Approximately 2 months.

Can be considerably more with other manufacturers, hence why daily home monitoring is normally prescribed on a case by case basis.

Question 8

List 4 legal considerations with regards to remote monitoring.

Answer 8

1. Who is qualified to look at the data
2. Who is responsible for reporting abnormalities in a timely fashion
3. Who is responsible for protection of patient data
4. Should all patients be made aware of the technology, who will front that cost