Implantable Loop Recorders (ILRs) in Children
Implantable loop recorders (ILR) are small event monitors implanted under the skin that are battery-powered and can stay in place for ~ three years. ILRs allow for long-term monitoring of your heart rhythm. ILRs can automatically detect arrhythmias based and have a patient-activated recorder for symptomatic episodes.
Implantable recorders communicate wirelessly with the recording-activating button and with the special home monitoring system that transmits information about your child's rhythm back to your healthcare team. These transmissions can be scheduled automatically or can be initiated by families when a symptomatic event has been recorded. The information on the device can also be read in your cardiologist's office.
Disorders
Implantable loop recorders can be used for detection of an abnormal rhythm. It can be used for monitoring in patients:
- With clinical syndromes or situations which increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
- Who experience infrequent symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, fainting, and chest pain that may suggest a cardiac arrhythmia.
On the inside
Your cardiologist or electrophysiologist places the small device under your skin, on your chest wall, overlying the heart. They may be placed with local anesthesia, conscious sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the age of the child. Most patients go home a few hours after the procedure.
Lifestyle Changes
Once the small incision is completely healed (one to two weeks), the implanted monitor does not prevent you from participation in routine activities or sports, however, your cardiologists may restrict your activities based on your diagnosis. You should discuss activity participation with your cardiologist.