Implantable loop recorder

Implantable Loop Recorder (ILR), also known as an Implantable Cardiac Monitor (ICM), is a small device that is implanted under the skin to record the electrical activity of the heart for a prolonged period. This device is used primarily for diagnosing cardiac arrhythmias or irregular heart rhythms.

Overview

The Implantable Loop Recorder is a type of cardiac monitoring device that is capable of recording the heart's electrical activity over an extended period, typically up to three years. Unlike other cardiac monitoring devices such as Holter monitors or event monitors, which are worn externally and can only record data for a few days or weeks, the ILR is implanted under the skin and can continuously monitor and record the heart's rhythms for a much longer period.

Indications

The ILR is typically used in patients who experience symptoms such as syncope (fainting), palpitations, or dizziness, which may suggest a cardiac arrhythmia but occur too infrequently to be detected with shorter-term monitoring methods. It can also be used in patients with known arrhythmias to monitor the effectiveness of treatment or to detect recurrent or new arrhythmias.

Procedure

The procedure to implant an ILR is relatively simple and can be performed under local anesthesia. The device, which is about the size of a pack of gum, is typically implanted in the left pectoral region, just under the skin. The procedure usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Function

Once implanted, the ILR continuously monitors the heart's electrical activity. If an abnormal heart rhythm is detected, the device records the event. The recorded data can then be downloaded and analyzed by a healthcare provider during a follow-up visit. Some newer models of ILRs can also transmit the recorded data wirelessly to a remote monitoring service, allowing for real-time monitoring of the patient's heart rhythm.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, implantation of an ILR carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and discomfort at the implantation site. There is also a small risk of device malfunction. However, these risks are generally low, and the benefits of continuous cardiac monitoring often outweigh the potential risks for patients with unexplained symptoms suggestive of a cardiac arrhythmia.

See Also

• Cardiac arrhythmia
• Cardiac monitoring
• Holter monitor
• Event monitor
• Syncope
• Palpitations
• Dizziness