Procedure

IMPLANTABLE LOOP RECORDER WITH DR SAYAN SEN

Procedure at a glance

Expected results:

Rhythm diagnosis over time

Treatment time:

15-30 minutes

Anaesthetic:

Local

Downtime:

1-2 days

Longevity:

Up to 3 years

Expected results:

Rhythm diagnosis over time

Treatment time:

15-30 minutes

Anaesthetic:

Local

Downtime:

1-2 days

Longevity:

Up to 3 years

An Implantable Loop Recorder (ILR) is a small heart rhythm monitor inserted under the skin to detect unexplained palpitations, fainting or irregular heartbeats. Dr Sayan Sen provides ILR diagnostics at specialist clinics in London with expert follow-up care.

What is an ILR?

An Implantable Loop Recorder is a compact device used to continuously monitor your heart’s rhythm over months or even years. It is implanted just beneath the skin in a simple outpatient procedure.

The ILR records electrical activity automatically or when triggered by the patient, helping to diagnose conditions like atrial fibrillation, intermittent arrhythmias or unexplained blackouts. It’s especially useful when symptoms are infrequent or undetectable on standard ECGs or Holter monitors. ILRs can wirelessly transmit data for remote analysis by your cardiology team.

When Might You Need an ILR?

An ILR is recommended when other tests haven’t provided answers for concerning symptoms, especially if episodes are infrequent, sudden or potentially dangerous.

Unexplained fainting: May help identify abnormal rhythms causing syncope or collapses.
Palpitations or fluttering: Detects intermittent arrhythmias that are hard to catch on short-term ECGs.
Suspected atrial fibrillation: Particularly in stroke patients without a known rhythm diagnosis.
Irregular heart rate: Helpful when symptoms are inconsistent or triggered by specific conditions.

What to Expect Following ILR Insertion

ILR insertion takes around 15-30 minutes under local anaesthetic. Most patients can go home the same day with only a small bandage.

You’ll be given a remote monitor that securely sends data to Dr Sen’s team. Follow-up involves reviewing recordings and correlating them with your symptoms. With clinics across London you’ll receive expert care and detailed interpretation of your heart rhythm data.

FAQs

Is the ILR noticeable or painful?

The ILR is very small – roughly the size of a USB stick – and sits under the skin. Most patients are unaware of its presence after healing. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive, with only minor soreness for a day or two.

How long can the device stay in?

Most ILRs last between 2 and 3 years, depending on the model. They are designed for long-term monitoring, particularly when symptoms are infrequent. Once a diagnosis is made or the battery runs low, the device can be safely removed.

Will I still need other heart tests?

The ILR is often used alongside other diagnostics like ECGs, echocardiograms or exercise tests. It complements short-term monitoring tools and provides valuable long-term insight when other tests fall short. Dr Sen will tailor your investigations accordingly.