Having an implantable loop recorder
If symptoms of fainting (syncope) or palpitations occur less frequently, long-term ECG monitoring can be achieved by insertion of a small recording device under the skin on the front of the chest, under local anaesthesia. These have a battery life of up to 3 to 4.5 years and allow the electrical activity of your heart to be continuously monitored. They can be interrogated remotely, allowing quick diagnosis of a variety of heart rhythm problems.
Preparing for your implant
You will be required to not eat or drink for 4 hours prior to the procedure. Driving. xxx
At the appointment
The insertion will be carried out in a minor procedure room on the day ward.
Following the implant
Please keep a careful eye on the wound site. Leave the dressing on for five to seven days and keep it clean and dry. Once you have removed the dressing, keep the area clean and dry until the wound is well healed.
Look out for any signs of infection, such as:
- redness or soreness
- raised appearance
- discharge
- raised temperature
- sudden severe pain at the wound site
If you have any concerns about your wound site, contact the cardiac rhythm management department between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. Outside of these hours, go to your nearest emergency department.
Home monitoring
You have been given an ‘activator’. You should use this to record your heart rhythm if you experience symptoms. You should carry your activator with you at all times. You will be instructed on how to use your activator and given an instruction booklet.
Your home monitor sends information through to the department from your ILR, which we then review to check your heart’s rate and rhythm.
Your home monitor may mean that you do not have to come into the hospital for appointments. We will send you a letter instructing you how and when to use it. This will be approximately every couple of months.
You will not be able to record more than two or three symptoms per day, depending on the settings of your device.
Hospital appointments
If we need you to come into the hospital to have your ILR checked, we will send you an appointment letter. Your appointment will normally take between five and 15 minutes, though in some circumstances it may take longer. We may call a doctor if there are any findings at your check that need further investigation, or a review of your current medication is needed.
Please bring a list of your current medication with you to any appointments. There is no need to bring your home monitor.
Your results
Your results will be sent to your referring clinician. You may be given the results of this test during your next clinic appointment with your hospital consultant.
For queries, please call: 01223 638025 08:00 – 18:00 Monday - Friday