Understanding Implantable Cardiac Monitor

An implantable loop recorder (also known as an Implantable Cardiac Monitor) is a type of heart-monitoring device that can record your heart’s rate and rhythm continuously for up to three years.

An implantable cardiac monitor can help answer questions about your heart that other heart-monitoring devices cannot provide. For instance, it can capture information that a standard electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) or Holter monitor might miss because some heart rhythm abnormalities occur rarely.

An implantable cardiac monitor may be implanted if you have recurrent, unexplained episodes of fainting, dizziness, lightheadedness and heart palpitations. You may also benefit from a cardiac monitor if you have experienced any of the following:

• Very fast or slow heartbeats
• Unexplained falls
• Possible hidden heart rhythm problems that can cause strokes
• Heart attack in the past
• An implantable cardiac monitor has the ability to record the electrical activity of the heart in two ways:
• Recording can be automatically activated if your heart rate goes above or below a certain level.
• You can activate a recording by using a remote controlled “patient activator” when you experience symptoms such as skipped beats, lightheadedness, dizziness, or a racing heartbeat.
  
  

Implant procedure

• This device is smaller than the size of a house key. It will be inserted just beneath the skin of the chest in a simple outpatient procedure.
• During the brief procedure, the insertion area will be numbed with local anesthesia, a small incision (cut) will be made and the monitor will be inserted through this incision.
• The device is usually inserted on the left side of your breastbone at about the level of your nipple.
• The doctor will close your incision with surgical tape and apply a special bandage over the surgical tape that should remain in place for 1 week.
• Your doctor will remove the device in a similar way once enough information has been recorded.
• You will most likely be awake and able to communicate with your nurse and doctor during the entire procedure.
  
  

Risks of cardiac monitor implantation

All procedures have some risks. The risks of this procedure include:

• Bleeding or bruising
• Infection that may require that the ILR be removed
• Mild pain at your implantation site
• Your specific risks will depend on your age, your overall health, and other factors.
• Ask your healthcare provider about which risks most apply to you. 

© 2000-2021 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. This information has been modified by your health care provider with permission from the publisher.