Abbott launches heart rhythm management devices in India

New Delhi: Abbott on Wednesday announced the launch of its new implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) devices for abnormal heart rhythms and heart failure.

CRT-Ds are used to prevent sudden death similar to traditional ICDs, but in addition act to restore the heart’s natural pattern of beating in patients with reduced cardiac function and progressive heart failure despite optimal medical therapy.

The devices offer new opportunities for patient engagement and remote monitoring through smartphone connectivity and connected applications. Additional benefits include a patient preferred design, improved battery longevity and MRI compatibility, said the company in a release.

The new system pairs with Abbott's secure remote monitoring app which is smartphone compatible. Through the app, physicians can monitor their patients remotely, allowing for identification of asymptomatic episodes as well as patient-triggered transmissions, which can lead to earlier intervention, it said.

"The positive impact of remote monitoring has been proven repeatedly and leads to better patient outcomes," said Avi Fischer, M.D., divisional vice president and chief medical officer for Abbott's Cardiac Rhythm Management business.

CRT-Ds are used to prevent sudden death similar to traditional ICDs, but in addition act to restore the heart’s natural pattern of beating in patients with reduced cardiac function and progressive heart failure despite optimal medical therapy.