The Event Monitor is a medical device used for long-term monitoring of cardiac electrical activity, primarily for diagnosing intermittent or sporadic arrhythmias. Patients can activate the device immediately during symptoms (such as palpitations or dizziness) to record electrocardiogram (ECG) data, assisting physicians in analyzing the correlation between symptoms and arrhythmias. This device combines wearable technology with remote transmission capabilities, suitable for cases with low symptom frequency or situations where immediate capture in a hospital setting is not feasible.
The event monitor is divided into two main types: wearable long-term monitors and mobile application integrated devices. Wearable devices typically attach electrodes to the chest and can monitor continuously for days or even weeks. Mobile application devices utilize smartphones or wearable gadgets, allowing patients to actively trigger recording functions during symptoms. Their operation involves sensors capturing waveform changes in cardiac electrical activity, transmitting data in real-time or after storage for analysis by medical professionals.
Unlike traditional 24-hour Holter monitors, event monitors have longer monitoring periods, and patients can selectively access data during critical times, enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Some advanced devices incorporate artificial intelligence algorithms to automatically identify abnormal heart rhythms, helping physicians quickly filter key data.
This treatment is mainly suitable for the following conditions:
Common applicable diseases include atrial fibrillation, ventricular ectopy, sinoatrial node dysfunction, etc. For patients with symptom cycles longer than 24 hours or only a few episodes per month, this device can effectively compensate for the limitations of short-term monitoring.
Patients need to correctly attach electrodes under the guidance of a physician and receive operational training. The device can typically be used continuously for 7 to 30 days and is waterproof to withstand daily activities. During each symptomatic episode, patients should immediately press the device button or the "Event Button" in the app to mark the critical data period.
There is no concept of "dosage," but attention should be paid to the electrode replacement cycle (usually every 3-7 days) to avoid skin irritation. The medical team will adjust the monitoring period based on symptom frequency, and some cases may involve comprehensive evaluation with echocardiography or blood tests.
Main advantages include:
Compared to traditional ECG, its long-term tracking ability can increase the detection rate of abnormal events, especially suitable for patients with irregular symptoms. Some devices feature warning functions that can notify the medical team immediately of serious arrhythmias, reducing the risk of sudden events.
Common minor side effects include:
Serious Risks: If patients neglect the symptom marking step, critical data may be lost. Rare cases may be affected by electromagnetic interference (such as near MRI machines), impacting data accuracy. Users should carefully read the safety manual before use.
Contraindications include:
During use, avoid exposure to high temperatures and strong magnetic fields. During bathing, remove or seal the device according to model specifications. Patients should check the device’s battery level and storage space daily to prevent data loss. Pregnant women should consult an obstetrician beforehand to assess necessity.
This device does not directly interact with medications, but attention should be paid to:
If patients undergo other invasive procedures (such as cardiac catheterization), they should inform the physician of the monitor’s status to avoid imaging interference. Some wearable devices may be affected by metal prostheses or electronic equipment, which should be noted in reports.
Multiple clinical studies show that event monitors can increase the diagnosis rate of sporadic arrhythmias by 40-60%. An analysis in the 2022 New England Journal of Medicine indicated that for patients suspected of sick sinus syndrome, the diagnostic sensitivity reached 89%, surpassing traditional 24-hour monitoring. Devices integrated with artificial intelligence can automatically filter out 97% of severe arrhythmia events.
In Taiwan’s National Health Insurance coverage guidelines, patients meeting specific conditions (such as recurrent unexplained syncope) can apply for reimbursement. Medical guidelines recommend prioritizing wearable long-term monitors for patients with symptoms lasting more than 7 days.
Main alternatives include:
When choosing, consider:
Compared to implantable devices, event monitors do not require surgery but may need patient cooperation for data marking. Mobile application devices require ensuring compatibility between smartphone system versions and medical apps to prevent data transmission interruptions.
What should I pay special attention to during daily activities while wearing the event monitor? You can perform light activities normally, but avoid contact with devices that emit strong magnetic fields or swimming pools. Consult your doctor before bathing to see if the device can be temporarily removed, avoiding water contact. Wear loose clothing to reduce friction and regularly check the skin condition at the attachment site.
How can I accurately record the symptoms and timing during an event? It is recommended to carry a record book to immediately note the start time, duration, and current activity (such as walking or eating). If the device has a button function, press the memory button immediately when symptoms occur. Also, record potential triggers like diet or stress levels to help physicians analyze the relationship with the condition.
What should I do if skin redness or allergic reactions occur during monitoring? If skin discomfort occurs, gently remove the adhesive part with clean fingers without rubbing the area. Use a cold compress to relieve redness or swelling, and contact the medical team promptly to arrange for a replacement adhesive. Avoid self-medicating with ointments to prevent affecting device adhesion or interfering with diagnosis.
How long after monitoring will I receive the diagnosis results? What will the report include? It generally takes 2-4 weeks for the medical team to analyze the ECG data. The report will include the number and duration of abnormal heart rhythms, correlation with patient-marked data, and whether the findings meet arrhythmia diagnostic criteria. The physician will recommend follow-up tests or medication adjustments based on the results.
What factors affect the diagnostic accuracy of the event monitor? Accuracy depends on whether the patient marks symptoms promptly, the stability of the device’s attachment position, and the diversity of daily activities. If symptoms occur less than once a week, extending the monitoring period may be necessary. Keeping detailed symptom diaries can also improve data interpretation accuracy.
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