Method for monitoring heart failure
US6480733B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 17, 1999 |
| Grant date | Nov 12, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 17, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B7/00
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method for monitoring the progression of the hemodynamic status of a heart failure patient. An implantable or other ambulatory monitor senses the patient's electrocardiogram (ECG) and calculates R-R intervals. The R-R intervals are used to calculate a measure of heart rate variability (HRV). Significant excursions from the average of the HRV measure are indicative of a heart failure exacerbation. Alternatively, vascular plethysmography provides a measure of pulse amplitude. Significant reduction in pulse amplitude and pulse amplitude variability are indicative of a heart failure exacerbation. This information may be used to warn the patient or healthcare providers of changes in the patient's condition warranting attention.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.