Our team has compiled a list of educational resources and links to help inform and support our patients on each type of treatments we provide.
What is it?
An implantable loop monitor is a small device placed under the skin of the chest. It continuously monitors your heart rhythm for up to 5 years. It is very helpful for finding abnormal heart rhythms that may be missed by short-term patch monitors or a standard ECG.
The device is placed during a quick and minor procedure. A small incision is made in the chest, and the device is inserted under the skin using local numbing medicine. It does not require sedation and does not involve surgery inside the heart.
It is important to know that this device does not diagnose a heart attack. It is not the same as a pacemaker or a defibrillator, and it does not treat heart rhythm problems. It only records heart rhythms. The device also allows patients to send in heart rhythm recordings when they have symptoms such as fainting or palpitations.
This educational video has been chosen by our cardiology team. Suggested or related videos displayed by the video provider are outside of our control and do not represent the views or endorsements of our physicians or clinic.
Who May Benefit From This Device?
This device may be helpful for people with:
- Unexplained fainting or occasional palpitations
- Possible heart rhythm problems, such as supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), ventricular tachycardia (VT), atrial fibrillation (AF), or slow heart rhythms
- Stroke with no clear cause
- A known abnormal heart rhythm that needs long-term monitoring
Living With This Device
This educational video has been chosen by our cardiology team. Suggested or related videos displayed by the video provider are outside of our control and do not represent the views or endorsements of our physicians or clinic.
Procedure Instructions (Pre/Day of/Post)
PRE-PROCEDURE
- The night before your procedure AND the morning of your procedure please cleanse with an antimicrobial soap, like Dial or Hibiclens (can be purchased over the counter at most pharmacies).
- Nothing to eat or drink (NPO) after midnight the night before your procedure (you may take your morning medications with a small sip of water).
- Please bring a copy of your current medication list to the hospital.
- Medtronic: ILR Brochure
DAY OF PROCEDURE
- Report to the Main Registration Desk at El Camino Hospital
- El Camino Hospital, 2500 Grant Road, Mountain View CA 94040 | (650) 940-7000
- You will be observed for ~1-2 hours after the procedure.
POST-PROCEDURE
- You will get detailed instructions upon discharge about incision care.
- You should have a post-op appointment scheduled with your electrophysiologist already, about 7-11 days after your procedure.