Loop Recorder FAQs
An ILR is a small recording device that is implanted under the skin
of your chest. It records the electrical signals in your heart so that
when the recording is downloaded, your doctor will be able to see
how your heart has been working. It has a solid state memory and
a 15- to 18-month battery life and can literally work for years.
Unlike a Holter monitor or other monitoring devices, there are no
wires or other external accessories so you don’t have to worry
about getting wet or engaging in regular activities.
What is a Implantable Loop Recorder ("ILR")?
What is the advantage of an ILR?
Because an ILR is able to monitor your heart signals for a much longer time period, it's more likely to capture what your heart is doing during the next time you do not feel well. Patients usually experience palpitations, dizziness, or feeling like their heart is racing or beating irregularly during these episodes. This recorded information helps your doctor make a definite diagnosis and develop a specific treatment plan for You.
An ILP continuously monitors your heart rate and rhythm while storing them in its memory for up to 3 years. Useful for patients with occasional symptoms such as palpitations, dizzy spells or blackouts which standard 24-48 hour heart monitoring does not pick up. Hence helping to find
the exact diagnosis.
How do I know if I need an ILR?
You will first need to be evaluated by a Cardiologist, which includes a thorough physical examination, detailed discussion of your medical history, and any necessary laboratory work-up. It is after such an evaluation that candidacy for an ILR is determined. Dr Del Priore is highly experienced in Diagnostic Cardiology and treatment of Cardiovascular Disease and will ensure that You will feel well informed and comfortable in your decision-making.
How is an ILR put in?
Good news! You do not need to go to a hospital for an ILP to be placed. It is a short 15-20 minute procedure that Dr Del Priore does in the privacy and comfort of his office. Dr Del Priore uses his own special technique to ensure a painless procedure utilizing precisely placed local anesthetics. He makes a small incision over the chest area and the ILR is inserted beneath the skin. Once the device has been positioned under the skin, the incision is stitched and a small dressing is applied. The ILR will then be tested and programed to a specific setting. Detailed instructions will be provided and then You get to go home
Will I have a scar?
Since the skin is cut and then stitched, it is not possible to have the skin remain perfect and unmarred. However, any residual scar fades with time and is not readily noticeable since the initial incision is very thin and small.
ILR implant scar
How big is an ILR?
Advanced Technology allowed for small sizes similar to a USB stick or a small pack of chewing gum. Depending on how recent the model is, they are about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 centimetres) long. They consist of a metal casing, a battery and an electrical circuit inside.
Which ILR does Dr. Del Priore use?
Dr Del Priore works with the most up-to-date and technologically advanced system. He uses the ST Jude Medical Confirm RX ICM (Implantable Cardiac Monitor) with SharpSense™ technology that is empowered by smartphone remote monitoring. This device is manufactured by Abbott, a company at the forefront of modern medical devices
Can I travel with an ILR?
Absolutely! You can take your monitor with you as it works abroad. Just remember to place it close to where you sleep, just like you would at home.
...and Yes! You can go through airport security scans. The ILR may be picked up by the scanners, so take your device card with You and show it to airport security
Would I be able to get an MRI?
ILRs nowadays are MRI compatible. However, You
should not have an MRI scan for six weeks after your
procedure. After that, You can have an MRI scan but
just need to let the Medical team know you have an
ILR .
TESTIMONIALS
"I was very nervous to get a Loop recorder and Dr Del Priore and his staff made me feel comfortable and relaxed. I barely felt anything!"
Margaret, age 74
"It has really eased my mind to have someone monitor my heart and figure out what's wrong with it.
Robert, age 82