Medtronic's Linq ICMs Excel in AFib Detection
In a groundbreaking study presented at the AFib Symposium, Medtronic's Linq family of insertable cardiac monitors (ICMs) showcased their advanced capabilities in detecting atrial fibrillation (AFib), significantly outperforming the Apple Watch. The DEFINE AFib study, which utilized an app-based enrollment feature, enrolled 973 patients to explore the impact of AFib burden on patient outcomes and quality of life.
Key Findings
The study revealed that Linq ICMs, when paired with a novel algorithm, could detect AFib episodes and accurately risk stratify patients as high risk prior to an AFib-related healthcare utilization 80% of the time. This AI-based approach not only quantified AFib burden but also informed treatment decisions and anticipated future healthcare needs.
- High-Risk Patients: 22% of patients who crossed into the high-risk threshold for the first time experienced an AFib-related healthcare utilization (AFHCU), compared to only 9% in the low-risk group.
- Detection Sensitivity: Linq ICMs demonstrated four times greater episode sensitivity than the Apple Watch, with the watch detecting only 26% of AFib episodes identified by the Linq ICM.
Implications for Patient Care
Dr. Alan Cheng, chief medical officer of the Cardiac Rhythm Management business at Medtronic, emphasized the importance of medical-grade technology in managing cardiac conditions like AFib. "While consumer-grade devices such as smartwatches can provide some insights into overall heart health, they are limited in their ability to screen for and help manage chronic conditions like AFib," Cheng stated. "Medical grade devices with continuous monitoring capabilities like ICMs are more appropriate."
This study underscores the critical role of advanced medical devices in the early detection and management of AFib, offering a more reliable solution for patients at risk of AFib-related complications.
