April 30, 2025Sensors23 citationsOpen Access
Wearable Devices for Arrhythmia Detection: Advancements and Clinical Implications
Structured PICO
I
Intervention
Wearable devices (smartwatches, smart rings, ECG patches, and smart textiles) for continuous monitoring
C
Comparator
Traditional monitoring (Holter monitors)
O
Outcome
Arrhythmia detection (specifically atrial fibrillation)
Wearable devices, particularly smartwatches and ECG patches, offer significant promise for early arrhythmia detection and remote monitoring, outperforming traditional Holter monitors in diagnostic yield.
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias are a growing global health concern, and the need for accessible, continuous monitoring has driven rapid advancements in wearable technologies. This review explores the evolution, capabilities, and clinical impact of modern wearables for arrhythmia detection, including smartwatches, smart rings, ECG patches, and smart textiles. In light of the recent surge in commercially available wearables across all categories, this review offers a detailed comparative analysis of leading devices, evaluating cost, regulatory approval, model specifications, and system compatibility. Smartwatches and patches, in particular, show a strong performance in atrial fibrillation detection, with patches outperforming Holter monitors in long-term monitoring and diagnostic yield. This review highlights a paradigm shift toward patient-initiated diagnostics but also discusses challenges such as false positives, regulatory gaps, and healthcare integration. Overall, wearable devices hold significant promise for reshaping arrhythmia management through early detection and remote monitoring.