Loop Recorder Insertion is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small implantable cardiac monitor (also known as an insertable cardiac monitor or loop recorder) is placed just under the skin of the chest. This device continuously records the heart’s electrical activity and is primarily used to detect and diagnose irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) that may not be captured by short-term monitoring methods like Holter monitors or event recorders.
Loop Recorder Insertion
Who Needs a Loop Recorder?
A loop recorder is recommended for individuals who experience:
- Unexplained fainting (syncope) that occurs without a known cause.
- Irregular or abnormal heart rhythms that are intermittent and hard to detect.
- Palpitations, dizziness, or unexplained chest discomfort with no clear diagnosis.
How is a loop recorder implanted?
This procedure is conducted on an outpatient basis and does not necessitate general anesthesia. You will remain conscious throughout the procedure and will be able to return home on the same day. The implantation of your loop recorder involves the following steps performed by a cardiologist.
- Giving you a mild sedative to promote relaxation, along with a local anesthetic to ensure you do not experience pain during the procedure.
- A small incision is made on the left side of your chest, which may measure as little as one-quarter of an inch.
- A small pocket is created beneath the skin to accommodate the device.
- The implantable loop recorder is inserted into this pocket.
- The incision is then closed using stitches or surgical glue.
- A magnet is placed over your chest to activate the device.
The minor procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The device automatically transmits recorded heart data to a monitoring system, which is reviewed by the doctor to detect abnormal heart rhythms. It can remain implanted for up to 3 to 4 years, providing long-term monitoring without the need for frequent hospital visits.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Patients can go home the same day and resume most normal activities within 24 hours.
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a few days to allow the incision to heal.
- The doctor will schedule follow-up visits to check the device and monitor the heart’s activity.
- If any unusual symptoms occur, such as pain, swelling, or redness at the incision site, patients should contact their doctor immediately.
Benefits of Loop Recorder Insertion
- Long-term heart monitoring without external wires or electrodes.
- Helps diagnose hidden heart conditions that other tests might miss.
- Minimally invasive procedure with a quick recovery time.
- Automatically records abnormal heart rhythms for precise diagnosis.
- Provides remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits.
Can a loop recorder damage your heart?
A loop recorder is considered safe and does not pose any risk of damaging your heart. It does not alter your heart rate, deliver shocks, or interfere with your heart’s functions. Its primary purpose is to monitor and document the electrical activity of your heart, specifically recording any irregularities.
