Algorithms used in telemonitoring programmes for patients with chronic heart failure: A systematic review

Introduction: Non-invasive telemonitoring programmes detecting deterioration of heart failure are increasingly used in heart failure care.

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare different monitoring algorithms used in non-invasive telemonitoring programmes for patients with chronic heart failure.

Methods: We performed a systematic literature review in MEDLINE (PubMed) and Embase to identify published reports on non-invasive telemonitoring programmes in patients with heart failure aged over 18 years.

Results: Out of 99 studies included in the study, 20 (20%) studies described the algorithm used for monitoring worsening heart failure or algorithms used for titration of heart failure medication. Most frequently used biometric measurements were bodyweight (96%), blood pressure (85%) and heart rate (61%). Algorithms to detect worsening heart failure were based on daily changes in bodyweight in 20 (100%) studies and/or blood pressure in 12 (60%) studies. In 12 (60%) studies patients were contacted by telephone in the case of measurements outside thresholds.

Conclusion: Only one in five studies on telemonitoring in chronic heart failure reported the algorithm that was used to detect worsening heart failure. Standardised description of the telemonitoring algorithm can expedite the identification of key components in telemonitoring algorithms that allow accurate prediction of worsening heart failure.