Originally Published MEM Spring 2004
FROM THE EDITOR
When we think of medical electronics, we often think of large, complicated equipment like MRIs. But, sometimes, it's the small devices that can make the biggest difference. One of this year's Medical Design Excellence Awards winners was just such a device. The Partner Rhythm Assistant, made by Guidant Corp. (Indianapolis), is a handheld device that works with the company's Vitality AVT implanted defibrillator.
The award jurors lauded the device for shifting more power to the patient. The 2.7-oz device provides a clear indication of atrial fibrillation by using a voice chip to tell the user when a shock should be administered. When the design team talked to users, one thing was clear, said Richard Stein, principal systems engineer for Guidant. Patients wanted a device that could talk to them and tell them what was wrong.
It was not without its challenges. The average age of a typical user is 70, so the device had to be easy to use. The complex device had to be easy to read too. It uses an LED backlit display similar to those used in cars. Only one icon is lit at a given time to give the patient the necessary information.
It communicates in color-coded light symbols and uses nonmedical spoken phrases such as "rhythm is fast," "rhythm OK," and "contact your doctor." It fits easily into either hand, and even the speaker is placed so that users won't cover it with their fingers. The device sends an atrial shock ranging from 6 to 30 joules of electricity to the heart by communicating with the implanted defibrillator. The patient can also initiate an ECG recording in the implanted device for the physician to review later.
Guidant filled a patient need that was not being served well. The best part of all is that this little electronic device lets patients actively treat their own condition. According to the company, the device gives users personal control over both self-diagnosis and self-initiation of therapy. Unnecessary doctor visits are eliminated. The result is more control over their lives and, of course, a little peace of mind for an otherwise debilitating disease.
The importance of good design in this case is clear. In a stressful situation, the last thing a patient needs is to have to fuss with complex instructions or risk pushing the wrong button.
This and other award-winning devices will be on display at at the Medical Design & Manufacturing tradeshow, Wednesday, June 16, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.
Sherrie Conroy, Editor
Copyright ©2004 Medical Electronics Manufacturing
