Sensitivity and specificity of handheld one lead ECG detecting atrial fibrillation in an outpatient clinic setting

J Electrocardiol. 2024 Mar-Apr:83:106-110. doi: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2024.02.001. Epub 2024 Feb 22.

Abstract

Aims: To validate the sensitivity and specificity of the Zenicor One handheld ECG device for detection of atrial fibrillation in an outpatient clinical setting.

Methods and results: Patients attending outpatient clinics at Danderyd Hospital (n = 220) were examined with one lead handheld ECG immediately after standard care 12‑lead ECG recording. Twelve recordings were excluded (atrial flutter or pacing) or missing. The recordings were dichotomously categorized as "atrial fibrillation" or "not atrial fibrillation" by two senior cardiologists. In cases of diverging interpretations, a third senior cardiologist had the deciding vote. Sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing atrial fibrillation was calculated with 12‑lead ECG as gold standard. Sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis of atrial fibrillation with one lead handheld ECG and 12‑lead ECG as gold standard was 98% and 99% respectively.

Conclusion: In a health-care outpatient setting, Zenicor One handheld ECG had high sensitivity and specificity for detection of atrial fibrillation when compared with 12‑lead ECG.

Keywords: Atrial fibrillation; Diagnostic accuracy; Handheld ECG; One lead ECG.

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Fibrillation* / diagnosis
  • Atrial Flutter* / diagnosis
  • Electrocardiography / methods
  • Humans
  • Sensitivity and Specificity