How long can loop recorders stay?

An implantable loop recorder continuously records information about your electrical activity, similar to an ECG. However, an implantable loop recorder can record heart rhythm for up to 3 years. It is continuously looping its memory and has automatic triggers to store recordings.

How do you take care of a loop recorder?

Keep your incision dry. If you have removable stitches, you should have them removed by your family doctor 7 to 10 days following the implant. Avoid powders, creams and ointments at the incision site. If you have bandages, remove them within a few days or follow the instructions given to you on discharge.

Are there any restrictions with a loop recorder?

They only record information. The worst that can happen with any type of interference is that the device will record signals that do not originate from the heart. There are no restrictions for loop recorder patients imposed by the loop recorder. MRI scans are safe in loop recorder patients.

How long does the battery in a loop recorder last?

The device has a battery life of about 3-4 years, and can be removed through a similar procedure to the placement procedure. The device is slightly larger than a matchstick.

Can a loop recorder be removed?

If a pacemaker (or defibrillator) is placed, the loop recorder can be removed at the time of the pacemaker surgery. A loop recorder is implanted over the left chest wall underneath the skin under local anesthesia. The procedure only takes a few minutes.

Does a loop recorder leave a scar?

As with any surgical procedure, there will be a 1-2 cm scar visible but every effort is made to minimise this. There may also be a small bump where the implantable loop recorder is fitted. Please tell your doctor if you have a preference about where the loop recorder is implanted.

Can you have a mammogram if you have a loop recorder?

If you have a pacemaker or loop recorder Pacemakers and loop recorders look like solid white areas on images. This may hide a small area of breast tissue. Your screening result will only be for the areas of the breast tissue that can be seen on the mammogram.

What happens if you don’t remove a loop recorder?

What will happen if I don’t have an ILR removed? If you decide not to have an ILR removed, then you will have the device remain under your skin. This may become uncomfortable. The advice from the makers of the device is to take the ILR out once it is no longer needed.

When should a loop recorder be removed?

Once your heart’s activity has been recorded during your symptoms and your cardiologist is satisfied that any heart related causes are identified or ruled out, the device will be removed. The removal of the ILR is similar to when you had it implanted and can be carried out in a day clinic.

Can you feel a loop recorder under your skin?

The operation site will be swollen and a bit red and it might also be bruised. Gradually, this will go down over the next three or four weeks. Once the swelling has improved, you might be able to feel or see the outline of your recorder, but this is normal.

Does a loop recorder hurt?

You may feel discomfort at the device implant site during the first 48-72 hours after the procedure. The doctor or nurse will tell you what medications you can take for pain relief. Please tell your doctor or nurse if your symptoms are prolonged or severe.