Abbott has made further progress in cardiac monitoring technology with the reception of a CE mark for its new insertable cardiac monitor (ICM), the Assert-IQ. This groundbreaking device boasts a remarkable six-year battery life, a feature that distinguishes it from its competitors in the market. Unlike its predecessors, which typically offer battery lives ranging from three to four years, the Assert-IQ’s extended longevity sets a new standard in the field of cardiac monitoring.
The Assert-IQ ICM is designed to continuously monitor a patient’s heart, enabling the detection of arrhythmias over an extended period. With options for both three and six-year battery life, Abbott aims to cater to a diverse range of monitoring needs. The shorter duration option is well-suited for traditional monitoring applications such as diagnosing fainting or heart palpitations, while the longer six-year option is particularly beneficial for patients undergoing therapy and at risk of developing arrhythmias. Competition in the ICM market has been intensifying, with companies like Boston Scientific making advancements in recent years. Despite this, Abbott has positioned itself as a frontrunner in the field, emphasizing the importance of battery life as a key differentiator. While other devices may offer shorter battery durations, Abbott’s Assert-IQ ensures prolonged monitoring without compromising on performance or reliability.
Insertion of the Assert-IQ ICM is a meticulous procedure designed to ensure patient comfort and safety throughout. The device is seamlessly implanted beneath the skin of the patient’s chest in a minimally invasive manner, minimizing discomfort and reducing recovery time. This procedure involves precise placement in the left pectoral region, also known as the left anterior chest wall, to optimize monitoring efficacy. Once inserted, the Assert-IQ seamlessly integrates with the patient’s daily routine, allowing them to carry on with their activities without interruption. The device’s compact size and streamlined design ensure minimal interference with daily tasks, providing patients with peace of mind as it continuously monitors their heart rhythms. The wireless connectivity facilitated by Bluetooth technology enables effortless data transmission to the patient’s smartphone, enhancing convenience and accessibility.
The real-time monitoring capabilities of the Assert-IQ are further augmented by advanced algorithms that optimize data management and accuracy. These algorithms enable the device to efficiently detect irregular heartbeats and provide clinicians with clinically actionable data. By reducing the data burden and enhancing diagnostic accuracy, the Assert-IQ streamlines physician workflow and improves efficiency, ultimately benefiting both patients and healthcare providers. Dr. Leonard Ganz, Chief Medical Officer of Abbott’s cardiac rhythm management business, highlights the significance of the Assert-IQ in expanding access to long-term monitoring and providing clinicians with more clinically relevant information. As the prevalence of abnormal heart rhythms continues to rise globally, physicians increasingly rely on ICM technology for diagnosing various heart conditions. The introduction of Assert-IQ in Europe is a step forward in providing healthcare professionals with advanced monitoring capabilities.
With more than 33.5 million people worldwide affected by atrial fibrillation, the most common heart arrhythmia, the demand for effective monitoring solutions is constantly rising. Abbott’s Assert-IQ addresses this need by offering unparalleled battery life and advanced algorithms for detecting irregular heartbeats. By providing physicians with actionable data and new insights into patient health, the Assert-IQ ICM represents an advancement in arrhythmia management, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.
