Implantable Loop Recorders

You might have an implantable loop recorder fitted if you haven’t yet received a diagnosis but have experienced symptoms that suggest heart rhythm problems. It is particularly useful if those symptoms do not allow you to record an ECG yourself (e.g. they are too short-lived or incapacitate you). 

Your cardiologist may also recommend fitting an ILR to monitor your heart rhythm if you're at high risk of stroke, or have had a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (“mini stroke”), that may have been caused by atrial fibrillation.

The ILR device is programmed with certain parameters, which, when met, automatically trigger the recording of your heart rhythm. You will also have a ‘symptom activator’ which allows you to alert the device when you’re experiencing symptoms.

The recorded data is stored in the device's memory and is also sent to a secure monitoring network. Once enough information has been recorded, your cardiologist will review the data, make a diagnosis and decide on the best treatment plan.

Once the cause of your symptoms has been identified, your consultant may decide to start treatment.

At Welbeck, an implantable loop recorder is fitted as an outpatient procedure, so you can go home shortly after, without the need for an overnight hospital stay.

You're awake during the procedure, but will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area in your chest where the device is being placed. Once the anaesthetic has taken effect, your consultant will make a small incision on the left side of your chest and gently inject the ILR under the skin.

The incision is then closed with surgical glue, stitches or plasters and a dressing is applied. From start to finish, the procedure takes around 15 minutes.

Having an ILR fitted is a straightforward and low-risk procedure. However, like with all procedures, there can be some side effects and risks, such as minor bleeding or bruising at the wound site, or very rarely, infection. 

If your wound appears red, swollen, is painful to touch or is oozing, then you should contact us straight away for advice.

Once your wound has healed, you shouldn’t feel any discomfort, and you will be able to do everything you usually would. 

In the days after having the ILR fitted, it’s important to keep the wound clean and dry and look out for any signs of infection.

At Welbeck, our cardiologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialities, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if needed to ensure you receive the best possible treatment as quickly as possible, all under one roof.

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer next-day appointments whenever possible. 

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once your provider has confirmed authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.

Can a loop recorder detect a heart attack?

An implantable loop recorder cannot detect heart attacks or strokes, but it can help your consultant diagnose certain heart conditions to determine suitable treatments.