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Ambulatory electrocardiography in the elderly: an audit
The British Journal of Clinical Practice
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Ambulatory electrocardiography (AECG) has a low overall diagnostic yield in elderly outpatients. However, it is valuable for diagnosing tachyarrhythmias and sick sinus syndrome, influencing patient management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Geriatric Medicine
- Diagnostic Technology
Background:
- Elderly patients often present with non-specific symptoms like syncope and dizziness.
- Ambulatory electrocardiography (AECG) is a tool used to investigate cardiac arrhythmias.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic yield and clinical utility of AECG in elderly outpatients.
- To determine the impact of AECG on patient management and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 264 AECG episodes in 252 elderly outpatients.
- Assessment of diagnostic yield and influence on management plans.
Main Results:
- Overall diagnostic yield of AECG was 12%.
- AECG was valuable in detecting symptomatic tachyarrhythmias and diagnosing sick sinus syndrome.
- AECG results influenced management in 16% and drug treatment in 10% of cases.
Conclusions:
- Critically interpreted AECG is a useful tool for investigating elderly patients with symptoms such as syncope, faintness, dizziness, and unexplained falls.
- AECG plays a significant role in diagnosing specific cardiac conditions in the elderly, guiding therapeutic decisions.