Comparing the Feasibility of S-Patch vs 24-Hour Holter in Frail Older People With Falls: Randomized Open-Label...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Geriatrics
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Falls and syncope are common in older adults, particularly those who are frail or have cognitive impairment.
• Conventional ECG monitoring devices are often poorly tolerated by this population.
• The S-Patch is a novel, lightweight device for continuous ECG monitoring up to 72 hours.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility, tolerability, and adherence of the S-Patch compared to standard 24-hour Holter monitoring in older adults (≥60 years) with falls, syncope, or near-syncope.
• To assess device usability and compare arrhythmia detection rates between S-Patch and Holter monitoring.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, single-center, randomized, open-label, crossover feasibility pilot study.
• Participants were randomized to receive either Holter then S-Patch, or S-Patch then Holter.
• Continuous monitoring was enabled for up to 4 days.

Main Results:

• Seventy patients were enrolled, with a high prevalence of frailty (majority) and cognitive impairment (45.7%).
• Both devices were well-tolerated, but S-Patch allowed significantly longer monitoring durations (mean >60 hours) compared to Holter.
• Tolerability was maintained in frail patients with cognitive impairment; arrhythmia detection rates were comparable.

Conclusions:

• The S-Patch is a feasible and well-tolerated cardiac monitoring solution for frail older adults, including those with cognitive impairment.
• It supports extended continuous monitoring, enhancing patient acceptability and adherence in clinical practice.
• S-Patch offers a valuable alternative to conventional Holter monitoring for this vulnerable population.