Having Loop Recorder Implantation

An implantable loop recorder (ILR) is a device that records information about your heart rhythm. During implantation, a small device is inserted under the skin to the left of your sternum over your heart. The device works as an electrocardiogram (ECG). It constantly picks up electrical signals from your heart. An ILR records for up to 3 years.

What to tell your healthcare provider

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take especially any blood thinners. This includes over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen. It also includes vitamins, herbs and other supplements, and any recreational drug use. Tell your healthcare provider if you:

• Have had any recent changes in your health, such as an infection or fever

• Are sensitive or allergic to any medicines, latex, tape, or anesthesia (local and general)

• Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant

Tests before your procedure

Before your surgery, you may need an electrocardiogram (ECG). During this test, sticky pads called electrodes will be put on your chest. Wires will be attached to the pads. These wires lead to a machine. The machine measures your heart’s electrical activity for a short period of time.

Getting ready for a loop recorder implantation

Talk with your healthcare provider about how to get ready for your procedure. You may need to stop taking some medicines before the procedure, such as blood thinners and aspirin.

Also, make sure to:

• Ask a family member or friend to take you home from the hospital. Don't drive yourself home.

• Don’t eat or drink after midnight the night before your surgery, unless your doctor says it’s OK.

• Follow all other instructions from your healthcare provider.

You will be asked to sign a consent form that gives your permission to do the procedure. Read the form carefully. Ask questions if something is not clear.

During your procedure

Ask your healthcare provider about what to expect during your procedure. A typical procedure goes like this:

• You may be given medicine to help you relax.

• The skin over the heart area will be cleaned and may need to be shaved.

• The doctor will put a local anesthesia medicine on your skin to numb it.

• The doctor will make a small nick in your skin. This is usually done in the left upper chest, over the heart.

• The doctor will inject the loop recorder underneath the skin through the skin nick. He or she will place the loop recorder in this pocket. The machine is about the size of a flat AAA battery.

• The doctor will close the nick with either glue or stitches. He or she will put a bandage on the area.

After your procedure

You will be shown how to use the activator, if you need one. The activator is used to turn on the loop recorder.

You will likely be able to go home the day of the procedure. You will need someone drive you home. You can take pain medicine if you need it. Talk with your healthcare provider about what’s best to take.

Rest for a day or two at home. You can go back to your normal activities as soon as you feel able.

Don't get the incision wet until your healthcare provider says it's OK. Don't do any vigorous exercise or drive until your healthcare provider gives you approval to do so.

Follow-up care

Tell your cardiologist if another healthcare provider wants you to get an MRI test. An MRI may cause your ILR to display a false reading.

You may keep your loop recorder for up to 2 to 3 years. When you no longer need it, you will need to have it removed in a similar procedure.