Abstract
The implantable loop recorder (ILR) is a new diagnostic tool in cardiology for establishing the causes of unexplained syncope in patients where standard conventional tests, invasive tests included, have failed. The device is a diagnostic "pacemaker," surgically implanted underneath the skin of the chest, with leads attached to the case of the device, not requiring endovenous lead implantation. Heart rhythm is monitored continuously on the basis of an endless loop, up to a maximum period of 14 months. Recording is carried out either by applying an outside activator whenever symptoms occur, or automatically, according to a pre-set algorithm for bradycardia, tachycardia, and/or asystolic detection. The aim of this study was to present this new diagnostic method as well as our first experiences with its implementation. We followed 5 patients (3 male, 2 female, mean age: 46.4 +/- 19) who had ILRs ("Reveal Plus," Medtronic Inc., USA) implanted at our centre, over a period of 14 months (7.6 +/- 5.5), concentrating on their clinical course, symptom occurrence, and electronically monitored heart rhythm at the time of ILR auto activation and/or recordings triggered by outside activation whenever a patient's symptoms were discernible. In ...Continue Reading
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