Cardiac Loop Recorder Insertion or Removal

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

What you need to know about cardiac loop recorder insertion or removal:

A cardiac loop recorder is a device that continuously records your heart rhythm. It is used to diagnose problems that do not have a clear cause or do not happen often. The device records heart rhythm patterns, called EKGs. A loop recorder may be recommended if you have a fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, seizures, or dizziness. It can also be used for long-term monitoring if you have atrial fibrillation or have had a heart attack. The device will be removed after it has collected enough data or the cause of your symptoms have been found. The device may be removed or replaced if you have used it for 3 years. The device may be replaced if your heart rhythm still needs to be monitored or the battery stopped.

How to prepare for your procedure:

• Your healthcare provider will tell you how to prepare. Your provider may tell you not to eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before your procedure. Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
• Tell your provider about all your current medicines. Your provider will tell you if you need to stop any medicine for the procedure, and when to stop. If you take blood thinners, you may need to stop taking them several days or weeks before the procedure. Your provider will tell you which medicines to take or not take on the day of your surgery.
• Tell your provider about any allergies you have, including to medicines. You may be given antibiotics just before the procedure to help prevent an infection.

What will happen during the procedure:

• Local anesthesia will be used to numb your skin. You will be given a mild sedative to help you relax, but you will be awake during the procedure. Children may receive general anesthesia so they sleep through the procedure.
• If you are having the device inserted, a small incision will be made. It may be on the left side of your chest or under your arm. The device will be inserted just under the skin. You will see a small lump where the recorder is placed. The device is about the size of a USB memory stick.
• The procedure to remove the device is similar to the procedure used to insert it. A small incision will be made over the recorder. The device will be removed through your skin. A new device may be placed, if needed.
• Your incision will be closed with stitches and covered with a bandage.

What to expect after the procedure:

• You will be taken to a recovery area to rest. When your healthcare provider sees that you are okay, you will be able to go home.
• You may have discomfort or bruising at the procedure site for up to 2 weeks.
• You may receive a handheld controller if the device was inserted. You press a button on the controller when you have symptoms, such as dizziness or lightheadedness. The device will record an EKG at that moment. Your cardiologist will get data from the device every 1 to 3 months with a monitor held over your skin. You may be able to send data from your device over the phone. You will do this by calling a number provided by your cardiologist. Ask for information about this process.

Risks of cardiac loop recorder insertion or removal:

You may bleed more than expected or develop an infection at the procedure site. The procedure may cause damage to your heart or blood vessels. The device may stop working sooner than expected.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US), or have someone call if:

• You have any of the following signs of a heart attack:
  • Squeezing, pressure, or pain in your chest
  • You may also have any of the following:
    • Discomfort or pain in your back, neck, jaw, stomach, or arm
    • Shortness of breath
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Lightheadedness or a sudden cold sweat

Seek care immediately if:

• You feel weak, dizzy, or faint.
• Your procedure site is red, swollen, or draining pus.

Call your cardiologist if:

• You have a fever or chills.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Procedure site care:

• Keep the site covered and dry as it heals. You may remove the outer bandage 2 days after your procedure. If a medical film was placed over the wound, leave it in place until it comes off on its own. Your healthcare provider will tell you when it is okay to shower. Keep the site covered while you shower. Pat the area dry gently.
• Do not soak in any water for 1 to 2 weeks, or as directed. Do not take a bath, swim, or sit in a hot tub.
• Carefully wash the site when your provider says it is okay. Use mild soap. Do not scrub the site. Let water run over it. Pat the area dry. Do not put any cream, oil, or lotion on the site. These may cause an infection.

Return to activity as directed:

Most people can return to normal activities soon after the procedure. Your cardiologist may want to know if your work involves electrical current or high-voltage equipment if the device was inserted. Ask about other electrical items that could interfere with your cardiac loop recorder.

Follow up with your cardiologist as directed:

You will need to return in 1 to 2 weeks. Your cardiologist will check your incision. If your device was inserted, the settings may also be programed again. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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