ABSTRACT
The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia is facing several challenges, including an aging population, an increase in chronic diseases, and a shortage of healthcare professionals. To address these challenges, the government is taking proactive steps, including expanding healthcare infrastructure, promoting the use of technology, improving the quality of healthcare services, and emphasizing the importance of preventive healthcare. In addition, the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions can play a crucial role in transforming the healthcare system by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing the quality of care. However, the adoption of AI solutions comes with challenges such as the need for high-quality data and the development of regulations and guidelines. The government needs to continue to invest in healthcare and AI solutions to build a more efficient and effective healthcare system that benefits all citizens.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) include permanent pacemakers (PPMs), implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices. They treat several cardiac issues and are dependent on batteries; however, similar to any medical equipment, they can fail. The prevalence and risk factors for CIED malfunction must be understood for earlier detection and better patient outcomes. Material and methods: A comprehensive search was conducted through electronic bibliographic sources (PubMed and Cochrane) until January 2023 in order to identify reviews, cohort studies and case reports pertaining to CIED. The primary outcome is the probability of CIED malfunction. The secondary outcome concerned significant risk factors. Two authors independently extracted articles by utilizing pre-established data fields. Using a random-effects model, the aggregated prevalence and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were computed. Results: The meta-analysis comprised eight review articles, twenty-two retrospective studies, and thirty-seven case reports from the systematic review. The eight review articles contained a CIED malfunction of 4.03 % (random-effects model). The pooled prevalence of CIED malfunction in the meta-analysis of 22 retrospective studies was 0.41 percent (using a fixed-effects model) and 8.01 percent (using a random-effects model). Moreover, age, pre-existing cardiac conditions, CIED type, lead placement, and medical device interactions all contributed to an increase in the heterogeneity (I2 = 98.90 %) of the risk of CIED malfunction. Conclusion: CIED malfunction is common and more likely to occur in elderly individuals and in certain types of CIED. Clinicians should focus on risk factors and closely monitor the patients with higher probability for CIED malfunction with short intervals.
