Detection of Arrhythmias Using Smartwatches—A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Smartwatches represent one of the most widely adopted technological innovations among wearable devices. Their evolution has equipped them with an increasing array of features, including the capability to record an electrocardiogram. This functionality allows users to detect potential arrhythmias, enabling prompt intervention or monitoring of existing arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation. In our research, we aimed to compile case reports, case series, and cohort studies from the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases published until 1 August 2023. The search employed keywords such as “Smart Watch”, “Apple Watch”, “Samsung Gear”, “Samsung Galaxy Watch”, “Google Pixel Watch”, “Fitbit”, “Huawei Watch”, “Withings”, “Garmin”, “Atrial Fibrillation”, “Supraventricular Tachycardia”, “Cardiac Arrhythmia”, “Ventricular Tachycardia”, “Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia”, “Atrioventricular Reentrant Tachycardia”, “Heart Block”, “Atrial Flutter”, “Ectopic Atrial Tachycardia”, and “Bradyarrhythmia.” We obtained a total of 758 results, from which we selected 57 articles, including 33 case reports and case series, as well as 24 cohort studies. Most of the scientific works focused on atrial fibrillation, which is often detected using Apple Watches. Nevertheless, we also included articles investigating arrhythmias with the potential for circulatory collapse without immediate intervention. This systematic literature review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on arrhythmia detection using smartwatches. Through further research, it may be possible to develop a care protocol that integrates arrhythmias recorded by smartwatches, allowing for timely access to appropriate medical care for patients. Additionally, continuous monitoring of existing arrhythmias using smartwatches could facilitate the assessment of the effectiveness of prescribed therapies.