What is an implantable loop recorder?
It is a device with the same purpose as a long-term external Holter monitor, but it is fully implantable. It consists of a tiny automatic device that is implanted under the skin near the heart.
How is it inserted?
Insertion can be performed at the SEMAP clinic under local anesthesia. For greater patient comfort, intravenous sedation may also be used, but in that case hospital admission is required. The hospital stay ranges from 6 to 24 hours, after which the patient can return home without additional restrictions.
How does it work after insertion?
The device is programmed by telemetry (using radio waves, without contact), and starts recording the electrocardiogram immediately. Whenever an arrhythmia occurs, the device automatically stores the episode in its internal memory. If the patient experiences a symptom, they can activate recording manually by pressing a button on a small transmitter resembling a key fob, and the loop recorder will record the episode immediately.
How long does it work?
The loop recorder has an internal battery with an average life of 12 to 24 months. All stored events can be viewed on a computer screen by telemetry whenever the patient visits the doctor.
Who needs an implantable loop recorder?
It is indicated for patients who experience symptoms very rarely and have not been diagnosed by other means.
