How long does a heart loop recorder last?

An implantable loop recorder is a very small heart rhythm monitoring device that stays in place under the skin of your chest for up to three years. An implantable loop recorder is a type of heart-monitoring device that records your heart rhythm continuously for up to three years.

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.

Can a loop recorder damage your heart?

What are the risks of cardiac LRI? You may bleed more than expected or develop an infection at the implant site. The procedure may cause damage to your heart or blood vessels. The device may stop working.

Why does a loop recorder have to be removed?

A device will be inserted (or removed from) under the skin on the chest using local anesthetic. The device has no therapeutic effect and seerves only to monitor the heart rhythm over the course of its finite battery life after which it must be removed.

Can I drive with a loop recorder?

After a loop recorder explant (removal) there are no restrictions on driving, unless you have an underlying medical condition which still needs to be investigated.

Can you leave a loop recorder in forever?

You may keep your loop recorder for up to 2 or 3 years. When you no longer need it, you will need to have it removed in a similar procedure.

Does loop recorder removal hurt?

The operation site will be closed with stitches under the skin which dissolve over time, Steri-Strips® (strong sticky plasters) and wound glue, all of which is covered with a small dressing. Your chest might feel sore from the operation, but the nurses will give you medicine to get rid of any pain.

Does a loop recorder have a battery?

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.

What can a loop recorder detect?

An implantable loop recorder, or ILR, is a heart recording device that is implanted in the body underneath the chest skin. It has several uses. The most common ones include looking for causes of fainting, palpitations, very fast or slow heartbeats, and hidden rhythms that can cause strokes.