IMPLANTABLE LOOP RECORDER (REVEAL DEVICE)

What is an implantable loop recorder?

An implantable loop recorder is a small device that is able to record the heart electrical activity on a constant basis and can store any abnormal heart rhythms in its memory for recall at a later date. It is implanted for patients who have infrequent symptoms that are compatible with a heart rhythm problem but have not been able to be captured by investigations. It is also implanted for the investigation of blackouts which have been unexplained after thorough investigation. Newer devices these days are much smaller and are approximately 5 cm long and the width of a pencil. These devices are injected under the skin with local anaesthetic and take only a few minutes to implant and patients can leave hospital within an hour or so after. These devices can remain in and the batteries last for up to approximately three years after which they can be removed. It is important to note, ILRs do not deliver any therapy, they simply monitor what is happening.

If you need to have a pacemaker implanted, I would be delighted to see you in clinic and give you an expert opinion.