The Gallant™ system heart rhythm management device: making a connection.

Implantable cardiac defibrillators have revolutionized the way we prevent sudden cardiac death via arrhythmias. The addition of cardiac resynchronization pacing to defibrillators has broadened that treatment to include patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. As with all technology, new devices and platforms expand the capabilities and interface with patients across the world. This review discusses the evolution from the initial modalities and methods of communication of implantable devices up to the most recent advances in implantable defibrillators and their integration into patient lives and clinical practice. This review is focused on the integration of Bluetooth communication into modern healthcare with the Gallant™ family of devices, the first branded launch by Abbott Laboratories. The evolution in the ability of implantable cardioverter defibrillators to communicate has evolved quickly since their inception. In parallel, the volume of data and clinical utilities have also adapted how we manage our patients. Fast and reliable access to accurate clinical data allows for more deliberate and timely management of arrhythmia patients. The advent of Bluetooth technology and its recent integration into implantable medical devices may not only satisfy the clinicians needs, but also fill in some longstanding gaps for patients to participate in their own care. We discuss the Gallant™ ICD family of Implantable defibrillators and their advantages and design aspects of integrating Bluetooth technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]