Detection of Recurrent Atrial Fibrillation Utilizing Novel Technology

The true prevalence of AF is likely underestimated because episodes are often sporadic and challenging to detect in a "real world" setting. This case report will describe a 58-year-old atrial fibrillation patient with multiple cardiac risk factors. After two ablations and one cardioversion, the patient failed to remain in normal sinus rhythm. Shortly after AF returned, the decision was made to perform a second cardioversion. Post-procedure, the patient was given a novel FDA-approved, wireless ECG monitoring device compatible with the iPhone®. This device has the capability of recording and transmitting a single-channel ECG. Within days, the patient began feeling symptomatic again and used his device to transmit an ECG to his healthcare provider. Recurrent AF was detected and the patient was directed to seek further evaluation. The success of this novel device to detect recurrent AF highlights the "real world" applicability of using mHealth technology more readily in patient care.