Loop Recorder Implants
Scottsdale, Arizona
At EPIC Surgery Center, we offer a range of diagnostic cardiology services, including implantable loop recorders. Expect world-class care by highly skilled physicians at our state-of-the-art cardiovascular ambulatory surgery center (ASC), the only one of its kind in the Scottsdale area.
What Is a Loop Recorder?
A loop recorder, also known as a cardiac event recorder, is a heart monitoring device that we implant right under the skin of your chest to record your heart rhythm continuously. It allows our cardiologists to monitor your heartbeat remotely while you go about your daily activities.
Why Would You Require a Loop Recorder?
Our physicians may recommend a loop recorder if you have an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia), an unexplained stroke, or unexplained fainting. The device captures information that standard electrocardiograms (EKG) or Holter monitors can miss, especially brief or infrequent arrhythmias. Rather than a glimpse of a moment in time, as with other procedures, the loop recorder acts as a continuous EKG recording machine, capturing information over a much more extended period.
What Should You Expect?
You’ll receive a local anesthetic at the insertion site, you’ll be awake during the procedure. Our cardiologist will make a small incision, insert the loop recorder, then close the incision. The device can stay in place for up to three years.
We’ll provide you with a transmitting device to place next to your bed. It will automatically send the information collected by your loop recorder to your cardiologist while you sleep. There’s also a button you can push to send data immediately if you’re experiencing any symptoms.
Living With a Loop Recorder
Your loop recorder won’t interfere with your life. We’ll supply you with a medical ID card providing information about your loop recorder. Make sure to carry it with you at all times. Keep in mind that these devices only record data and do not emit any signals. They are safe for transit through metal detectors.
Removing Your Loop Recorder
The typical battery life of a loop recorder is about three years. We recommend keeping it in place until we’ve collected enough data to make a diagnosis. If the device records a heart rhythm disturbance, we may recommend testing or therapeutic procedures. Once we collect all the information we need, we will remove the device in a similar process as placing it.
Healthy Habits for Healthy Hearts
Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle is the best way to ensure your heart thrives. We recommend consuming a healthy, nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure to limit trans fats and saturated fats. It’s also essential to maintain moderate exercise, lose excess weight, quit smoking, and limit alcohol consumption.
