Professor Roger Seheult, MD, of MedCram, breaks down the latest technology in ECG Watches, how they work, and how they can be used to detect atrial fibrillation.
ECG Watch: How it Works (Apple, Samsung A fib Watches / EKG)
In this 140th update video, Roger Seheult, MD explains how atrial fibrillation can be detected on ECG (electrocardiogram) smartwatches and the advantages and limitations of this technology. He kicks off the discussion with a reference to this article by Wareable that explains how ECG watches work and notes some of the best watches on the market.
Next, he provides an overview of what an ECG is and how it “views” the heart from different angles… ECGs are very helpful in diagnosing common heart ailments including atrial fibrillation: an irregular heart rhythm caused by electrical impulses that misfire and cause the heart’s atria to flutter. The result? an increased risk for developing blot clots and strokes. He then touches on possible treatment options for “afib” including blood thinners and anticoagulants such as coumadin and heparin and their related risks and benefits.
In closing, Dr. Seheult reviews the accuracy of ECG watches to detect atrial fibrillation. Though accuracy levels are high, Dr. Seheult stresses that ECG watches do not replace a full 12-lead ECG performed by a medical professional.
For more information, see this MedCram course entitled ECG/EKG Interpretation Explained Clearly which is also available on the Apple App Store, this article on the Apple Watch ECG App, and this study from Stanford Medicine showing how wearable technology can help detect atrial fibrillation.
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