Implantable Loop Recorder (ILR)

Implantable Loop Recorder

The implantable loop recorder (ILR) is a subcutaneous (under the skin), single-lead electrocardiographic (ECG) monitoring device used for patients with recurrent, unexplained episodes of palpitations or syncope (fainting). It is particularly useful when symptoms are infrequent and unpredictable.

Indications

1. Unexplained syncope (fainting)
2. Unexplained palpitation
3. Detection of atrial fibrillation when the cause of a stroke is otherwise unexplained

Procedure

The implantation is performed in hospital and typically takes 5-10 minutes, with discharge home in the hour following.

The device is placed on the left side of the chest under local anaesthesia. Sedation is sometimes given if preferred. A small 1-2 cm incision is formed. The device is placed in the subcutaneous layer - that is, just below the skin but not in the circulation itself. The wound is closed with an absorbable suture and a water-proof dressing is applied.

Wound Care

Do not submerge the wound under water for 1 week, however you can shower as the dressing is water proof. The dressing is removed after 3-4 days.

Monitoring

Your smartphone, or a separate monitoring device, will be used to monitor the loop recorder. It will automatically transmit any abnormal rhythms where the heart is either too slow or too fast to Dr Perrin. Typically, the battery will last 4-5 years allowing a diagnosis to be made even when the problem is infrequent.