Loop Recorder Implantation

If you have a condition such as arrythmia that needs constant monitoring, you may be a candidate for having an implantable loop recorder (LR) installed right under the skin on your chest. This insertable cardiac monitor, which is about the size of a USB stick or a pack of chewing gum, performs the important function of monitoring the electrical activity of your heart on a continual basis. Unlike Holter monitors or telemetry monitors intended to monitor your activity for a day or month, implantable versions can do the job for 2 or 3 years.

Why Implant A Loop Recorder

While you can have an external monitor attached to electrodes fastened on your body, having one implanted by cardiologist and electrophysicist Dr. Hetal Bhakta makes this important device fit seamlessly into your life. Because you have no exposed wires or patches, you can safely bathe or swim.

An LR records the same type of information an EKG picks up on the test in your doctor’s office, but the recorder accumulates data for a longer time. This is useful if you have periodic events such as fainting that might not be picked up by the short test. Having a record of the activity of your heart can help Dr. Bhakta properly diagnose and treat your condition.

As the device records both your normal heart function and any abnormalities, you can either freeze the recorder when you experience a palpitation, skipped beat, lightheadedness, or dizziness with a handheld remote or patient activator or the recorder can be programmed to take note of certain changes. Your doctor will review your data, so he can reach out to you whenever he notes an abnormality that needs to be addressed.

The Implantation Process

Inserting the monitor is done under local anesthetic after Dr. Bhakta makes an incision about 1.5 inches long on the left side of the chest, lateral to the sternum just below the nipple line. He creates a pocket under the skin that holds the ILR. Implantation is outpatient surgery that may cause discomfort and bruising in the incision area for a few weeks.

You will go home with complete instructions about how to transmit data. Transmission process takes place via Internet, usually during the night.

If you have a heart condition that needs monitoring, Dr. Bhakta will discuss the advantages of an implantable loop recorder with you. Call him for an appointment at (760) 883-1600.