What is Implantable Loop Recording?
An implantable loop recorder (ILR) is a small device, about the size of a USB stick, that's placed just beneath the skin of your chest to continuously monitor your heart's electrical activity for up to three years. Unlike external monitors that you wear for a few days or weeks, this device remains in place long-term, automatically recording and storing information about your heart rhythm. When it detects an irregular heartbeat or when you activate it because you're experiencing symptoms, it saves that data for your doctor to review. The device is particularly valuable for diagnosing heart rhythm problems that occur infrequently and unpredictably.
Why is it Performed?
Your cardiologist may recommend an implantable loop recorder if you've experienced unexplained fainting (syncope), seizures of unknown cause, recurrent palpitations, or if you're at risk for dangerous heart rhythms but external monitoring hasn't captured the problem. It's also used for patients who have had a stroke with no identified cause, as hidden heart rhythm abnormalities can sometimes be the culprit. Because the device monitors continuously for years, it can catch rare events that shorter-term monitoring might miss, providing crucial diagnostic information that guides treatment decisions.
What to Expect
The implantation procedure is performed as an outpatient procedure and typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Your doctor will numb a small area on your chest with local anesthetic, then make a tiny incision (about one inch long) to create a pocket just beneath the skin. The device is inserted into this pocket, and the incision is closed with a few stitches or surgical glue. You'll be awake during the procedure and should feel only slight pressure, no pain. Most patients can return home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days. The device works automatically in the background, but you'll receive a small activator to trigger recordings when you experience symptoms. You'll have periodic follow-up appointments where data is downloaded wirelessly from the device.
Preparing for Your Test
Before implantation, inform your doctor about all medications you're taking, particularly blood thinners, as you may need to adjust them temporarily. Fast for a few hours before the procedure if instructed. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you shouldn't drive for 24 hours. After implantation, keep the incision site clean and dry for several days. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for about a week to allow proper healing.
Understanding Your Results
Your doctor will review recordings from your loop recorder during scheduled follow-up visits and whenever you transmit data after symptoms. The device can detect various heart rhythm abnormalities including atrial fibrillation, dangerous rapid rhythms, or pauses in your heartbeat. Normal results show regular heart rhythm with no concerning patterns. Abnormal findings might explain your symptoms and guide treatment options such as medications, catheter ablation, or pacemaker implantation. The correlation between your symptoms and recorded heart rhythms helps determine whether your symptoms are cardiac-related or have another cause. When the monitoring period is complete or diagnosis is established, the device can be easily removed through a similar minor procedure.
Have questions about Implantable Loop Recording? Our experienced cardiology team is here to help. Contact Advanced Cardiovascular Specialists & Primary Care at (203) 334-2100 to schedule your appointment or discuss any concerns.
