This can give your consultant detailed information on the rhythm of your heart and allows them to monitor any patterns of abnormal rhythm.
Both implantation and removals of these loop recorders take place in the Cath Lab. The Cardiac physiologist will provide education for you on the day regarding your device.
Your consultant may recommend an implantable loop recorder if you have:
- An abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- An unexplained stroke
- Unexplained fainting (syncope)
- An implantable loop recorder can capture information that a standard electrocardiogram (ECG) or Holter monitor may miss, particularly arrhythmias that are brief or infrequent.
- Your doctor may also recommend an implantable loop recorder if you're at high risk of stroke. Certain arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation, increase your risk of stroke.
An implantable loop recorder is placed under the skin on the chest.
You'll be awake for the procedure but may be given medicine to relax you (sedative). The area of skin on the chest is numbed. Your doctor makes a tiny incision, inserts the device and closes the incision. The device will stay in place for up to three years.
Your doctor will interpret the results of your test and call if he or she has any concerns. You'll likely need to see your consultant once or twice a year for routine check-ups while the device is in place.
An implantable loop recorder is invisible and doesn't interfere with your daily activities. It has no patches or wires. You don't have to worry about getting the device wet while bathing or swimming.
An implantable loop recorder is considered safe for use during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but always let your doctor know about your implant before you schedule such an imaging test.
It's also possible that an implantable loop recorder might set off metal detectors, for example, at an airport. Your doctor can provide you with a device identification card to carry with you for such situations.