Objectives: Palpitations and syncopes are frequent possible symptoms of dysrhythmias in pediatric
patients and in patients with congenital heart diseases. The precise diagnosis can
be influenced by a number of factors: non-compliance, rare occurrence and short duration
of the dysrhythmia. With the standard Holter ECG there is only the option of 24- to
48-hour monitoring of the patient. Event monitors however are invasive and expensive
procedures. To date there is no possibility to make a 30-day monitoring with a 3-channel
ECG.
Methods: We used the 3-channel cordless ECG from Nuubo in 10 consecutive patients and assessed
the feasibility and accuracy. In addition questionnaire regarding patient comfort
was used. Diagnostic investigation was indicated because of palpitations, syncopes,
previous history of dysrhythmia with new symptoms and for therapy monitoring. The
average period of monitoring was 9.5 days (3–21 days). The median age was 21.6 years
(6–39 years).
Results: The long-term ECG monitoring showed an excellent signal quality in all patients;
84% available in analyzable form. No patient prematurely stopped the long-term ECG.
Even patients with massive scoliosis, dextrocardia and other complicating circumstances
such as patient compliance reached a good signal quality. In 3 patients dysrhythmia
were detected which required a therapy adjustment. These periods of dysrhythmia were
of short duration and did not happen every day so that it might have stayed undetected
with a standard Holter ECG. 2 patients showed no changes in their known dysrhythmia
and 5 patients showed normal ECG in rare episodes of palpitations or syncope. All
the patients would choose to wear the Nuubo system again.
Conclusion: The cordless ECG from Nuubo® is a helpful diagnostic tool for patients with suspected
rhythm disorders covering a wide age and size range. The monitored period was adapted
to individual patient’s needs. The cordless ECG showed impressive signal quality and
precise detection of arrhythmias.
