What is an implantable loop recorder?
An ILR is a small cardiac device that’s implanted under the skin usually on the front left side of the chest. It acts like a tiny electrocardiogram (ECG) machine to continuously monitor your heart rate and rhythm for up to two or three years.
What separates an ILR (Implantable Loop Recorder) from other tests is that it records heart activity continuously and can store and transmit ECG samples. It can be triggered manually by the patient - typically by pressing a button via the remote monitoring App on a phone when symptoms occur - or automatically if it detects an abnormal heart rhythm. This is particularly useful when symptoms or arrhythmias are infrequent and therefore unlikely to be captured during a standard ECG or short-term ECG monitoring.
Why would you have an implantable loop recorder fitted?
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.
How do implantable loop recorders work?
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.
