Project Description:

Patients at risk for sudden cardiac death (SCD) can experience life-threatening arrhythmias requiring immediate electric shocks to restore heart rhythm. High-risk patients typically receive an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) for continuous monitoring and shock delivery. However, prior to being deemed eligible for an ICD, patients must undergo a 3-month monitoring period to assess risk factors. During this time, physicians often prescribe a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) as a temporary precaution. The leading WCD, the ZOLL LifeVest, faces patient noncompliance due to its discomfort and inconvenience. Despite being the pioneer in the market, many physicians have expressed concern about the alarming noncompliance rate from patients due to the number of false alarms, its heavy and bulky nature, and its inability to maintain its structure following a laundry cycles.

To address this, our team has developed a Strapless WCD with Overlapping Adjustable Bands. It features Velcro attachments that allows the patient to configure the garment to their anatomy and wire mesh encasing to manage and control the movement of the electrode wires, reducing the number of false alarms. It is also battery integrated, relieving the patient of having to remember to shoulder the traditional battery pack with them at each moment of the day. Over 6 different fabrics have been ultimate tensile stress (UTS) tested to ensure that it is not only elastic, but strong – maximizing patient comfort and security. Our device alleviates the stress and anxiety of sudden cardiac arrest for primary and secondary users, and it provides a comfortable experience for 24/7 wear.