A Pilot Study of the Home-Based 12-Lead Electrocardiogram in Clinical Practice

Abstract

Telehealth consultation with a physician can be an attractive option for eligible patients. In this pilot study, we evaluate the feasibility and efficiency of an FDA approved 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) device, Smeartheart, that can be used remotely in the patients’ home before telehealth appointments with a cardiac electrophysiologist. We scheduled a phone call with 10 patients who used this device as part of their care. Eight patients were able to obtain a diagnostic quality ECG. Telephone call appointments with ECG technicians took a median of 51 minutes, and it took patients an average of 2.2 attempts to record a usable ECG. We also identified barriers to the use of the Smartheart device, including internet accessibility, training material, patient functional status, and motion artifact that may inform more widespread study and utilization of remote-recorded 12-lead ECGs. We conclude that the Smartheart device may have clinical use with remote use in routine clinical care, although the best use of this technology requires further study.