Comparison of wearable accessories that offer blood pressure estimation with photoplethysmographic wave analysis technology with invasive blood pressure monitoring and usability as a non-invasive early predictor in monitoring hemodynamic parameters in anesthesia practice

Objective: Advanced biosensors in wearable accessories can obtain and wirelessly transmit vital signs. While these devices, which can offer blood pressure data through in-depth analysis of Photoplethysmography waves, are generally examined for daily use and hypertension monitoring, we aimed to evaluate their efficacy and reliability for clinical use through a different approach and potential software changes. We designed a tracking system that continuously monitors vital signs and wirelessly alerts critical values. Materials and Methods: Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 SM-R870 from Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. was procured for the study through official database research. Keeping patient safety and ethical considerations in mind, blood pressure values from 40 patients were simultaneously recorded along with bedside monitors. A Vital Early Warning System (VEWS) was designed, and critical values were assigned for analysis. Parameters such as oxygen saturation, heart rate, ECG, bioimpedance analysis, and stress levels were also recorded. Data were post-hoc analyzed, and the potential success of the designed VEWS system was studied. Results: Blood pressure generally showed a medium-high level of correlation, and the overall success of the designed VEWS system was calculated as 71.3%. In the 28.7% of adverse cases, false negatives were considered harmless as they were only for additional monitoring, while false positives could contribute more data for technological advancements. Other parameters, despite some deviations, were found to be beneficial for providing additional monitoring and vital parameters. Conclusion: The system, designed to be highly compact, economical, and easy to install, was found to have great potential in providing critical information for emergency situations. It was concluded that further development of such systems would benefit from increased collaboration between technology companies and healthcare professionals.