Some heart rhythm problems happen infrequently, making them difficult to detect during standard tests. A loop recorder is a small implantable device that continuously monitors your heart’s electrical activity over an extended period. It can capture irregular heart rhythms that other tests might miss, helping providers make accurate diagnoses and choose the right treatments.
Epic Cardiology supports heart health across the Greater Los Angeles area, with clinics available in Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood.
What Is a Loop Recorder?
A loop recorder, also called an implantable loop recorder (ILR), is a thin device about the size of a USB stick. It is placed just under the skin in the chest area and records your heart’s rhythm around the clock. The device can store and transmit information directly to your healthcare provider, allowing for continuous monitoring without the need for repeated office visits.
Unlike standard EKGs or Holter monitors, which record heart activity for a few days at most, a loop recorder can monitor for months or even years. This makes it ideal for diagnosing conditions that cause symptoms only occasionally.
Why Would My Provider Recommend This Test?
A loop recorder may be suggested if you have:
- Unexplained fainting or dizziness.
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) that occur infrequently.
- Symptoms like palpitations or shortness of breath without a clear cause.
- Suspected atrial fibrillation or other rhythm disorders.
- A history of stroke without an identified reason, to check for silent arrhythmias.
Benefits of a Loop Recorder
- Long-Term Monitoring – Captures heart activity over months or years, increasing the chance of detecting irregular rhythms.
- Accurate Diagnosis – Helps pinpoint the cause of symptoms that are otherwise difficult to evaluate.
- Continuous Recording – No need to wear external wires or patches daily.
- Early Detection of Problems – Can identify arrhythmias before they cause serious complications.
- Convenience – Many models automatically send data to your provider without extra appointments.
How Should I Prepare?
- You will receive specific instructions from your provider before the procedure.
- Generally, no major changes to your diet or medication are required unless advised.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home if sedation will be used.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Step 1: Preparation
- The skin over the implant site is cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia.
Step 2: Insertion
- A small incision is made, and the loop recorder is placed under the skin.
- The incision is closed with stitches or adhesive strips.
Step 3: Activation
- The device is programmed to record continuously and store significant events.
- You may receive a handheld activator to mark events when you feel symptoms.
The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes, and most patients can go home the same day.
Is It Safe?
Yes. The risks are low, with rare complications such as infection or minor discomfort at the implant site. Your provider will review all safety considerations with you before the procedure.
When Will I Get My Results?
The loop recorder stores data that your provider can review regularly. Some models transmit information automatically, allowing for timely updates without an in-office visit.
Get Clarity About Your Heart Health with Epic Cardiology
If you have unexplained symptoms like fainting, irregular heartbeats, or episodes of dizziness, a loop recorder can help uncover the cause.
Serving the Greater Los Angeles area, Epic Cardiology has clinics in Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward finding answers and improving your heart health.
Some heart rhythm problems happen infrequently, making them difficult to detect during standard tests. A loop recorder is a small implantable device that continuously monitors your heart’s electrical activity over an extended period. It can capture irregular heart rhythms that other tests might miss, helping providers make accurate diagnoses and choose the right treatments.
Epic Cardiology supports heart health across the Greater Los Angeles area, with clinics available in Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood.
What Is a Loop Recorder?
A loop recorder, also called an implantable loop recorder (ILR), is a thin device about the size of a USB stick. It is placed just under the skin in the chest area and records your heart’s rhythm around the clock. The device can store and transmit information directly to your healthcare provider, allowing for continuous monitoring without the need for repeated office visits.
Unlike standard EKGs or Holter monitors, which record heart activity for a few days at most, a loop recorder can monitor for months or even years. This makes it ideal for diagnosing conditions that cause symptoms only occasionally.
Why Would My Provider Recommend This Test?
A loop recorder may be suggested if you have:
- Unexplained fainting or dizziness.
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) that occur infrequently.
- Symptoms like palpitations or shortness of breath without a clear cause.
- Suspected atrial fibrillation or other rhythm disorders.
- A history of stroke without an identified reason, to check for silent arrhythmias.
Benefits of a Loop Recorder
- Long-Term Monitoring – Captures heart activity over months or years, increasing the chance of detecting irregular rhythms.
- Accurate Diagnosis – Helps pinpoint the cause of symptoms that are otherwise difficult to evaluate.
- Continuous Recording – No need to wear external wires or patches daily.
- Early Detection of Problems – Can identify arrhythmias before they cause serious complications.
- Convenience – Many models automatically send data to your provider without extra appointments.
How Should I Prepare?
- You will receive specific instructions from your provider before the procedure.
- Generally, no major changes to your diet or medication are required unless advised.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home if sedation will be used.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Step 1: Preparation
- The skin over the implant site is cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia.
Step 2: Insertion
- A small incision is made, and the loop recorder is placed under the skin.
- The incision is closed with stitches or adhesive strips.
Step 3: Activation
- The device is programmed to record continuously and store significant events.
- You may receive a handheld activator to mark events when you feel symptoms.
The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes, and most patients can go home the same day.
Is It Safe?
Yes. The risks are low, with rare complications such as infection or minor discomfort at the implant site. Your provider will review all safety considerations with you before the procedure.
When Will I Get My Results?
The loop recorder stores data that your provider can review regularly. Some models transmit information automatically, allowing for timely updates without an in-office visit.
Get Clarity About Your Heart Health with Epic Cardiology
If you have unexplained symptoms like fainting, irregular heartbeats, or episodes of dizziness, a loop recorder can help uncover the cause.
Serving the Greater Los Angeles area, Epic Cardiology has clinics in Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward finding answers and improving your heart health.