Long-Term Heart Rhythm Monitoring in Hackensack, NJ
Implantable Loop Recorders in Hackensack, NJ
If you've been experiencing unexplained fainting, palpitations, or irregular heartbeats, getting to the root cause can be challenging, especially when symptoms come and go unpredictably. An implantable loop recorder (ILR) is a small, minimally invasive heart monitoring device that is placed just beneath the skin to continuously record your heart's electrical activity for up to three years. Unlike a standard EKG or Holter monitor, both of which can only capture a short window of data, an ILR provides long-term, around-the-clock cardiac monitoring that can detect even the most infrequent arrhythmias.
Advanced Cardiovascular Interventions (ACI) offers implantable loop recorder procedures under the care of Dr. Hamid Nia, an experienced interventional cardiologist serving patients in Hackensack, NJ and throughout the region. Dr. Nia takes a thorough, patient-first approach to heart rhythm monitoring, working closely with each patient to understand their symptoms and determine the most appropriate diagnostic strategy. If you've been referred for an ILR or are experiencing unexplained cardiac symptoms, ACI is here to help. Request an appointment today.
What to Expect From an Implantable Loop Recorder Procedure
Implantable Loop Recorder Procedure at ACI
The implantable loop recorder procedure is minimally invasive and typically completed in under 30 minutes. Here is what most patients can expect:
- Before the procedure: Dr. Nia will review your medical history and symptoms to confirm that an ILR is the right diagnostic tool for your situation. You will receive detailed preparation instructions from our team prior to your appointment.
- During the procedure: A small incision is made in the chest, and the ILR — roughly the size of a USB drive — is inserted just beneath the skin. The incision is then closed with a small bandage or steri-strips. Most patients experience minimal discomfort.
- After the procedure: You will be able to return home the same day. The device will continuously monitor your heart rhythm and transmit data wirelessly to Dr. Nia and his team, allowing for remote monitoring without frequent office visits.
- Ongoing monitoring: When a cardiac event is detected or when you manually trigger the device due to symptoms, the data is recorded and reviewed by Dr. Nia to inform your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Throughout the entire process, Dr. Nia and the ACI team are committed to keeping you informed and comfortable every step of the way.
Understanding Implantable Loop Recorders & Heart Rhythm Monitoring
What Does an Implantable Loop Recorder Monitor?
An implantable loop recorder continuously tracks your heart's electrical activity, making it one of the most powerful tools available for diagnosing elusive heart rhythm disorders. It is particularly useful for detecting:
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib): an irregular, often rapid heart rhythm that can increase the risk of stroke and heart failure
- Unexplained fainting (syncope): episodes that may be caused by a brief but significant disruption in heart rhythm
- Palpitations: sensations of a racing, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat that occur infrequently and are difficult to capture with shorter-term monitoring devices
- Cryptogenic stroke: stroke of unknown cause, where an underlying arrhythmia may be responsible
If your symptoms have been difficult to diagnose with standard cardiac testing, an ILR may provide the long-term data needed to finally get answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is an Implantable Loop Recorder?
An implantable loop recorder is a small, subcutaneous heart monitoring device that continuously records the heart's electrical activity over an extended period — typically up to three years. It is used to detect infrequent or unpredictable arrhythmias that cannot be captured by shorter-term monitoring tools such as a Holter monitor or EKG. The device transmits data wirelessly, allowing Dr. Nia to monitor your heart rhythm remotely and review any recorded events.
Can a Loop Recorder Detect a Heart Attack?
An implantable loop recorder is primarily designed to monitor heart rhythm rather than detect a heart attack. It is most effective at identifying arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, and other electrical abnormalities. That said, some rhythm changes associated with a cardiac event may be captured by the device. If you are concerned about your risk for heart attack, Dr. Nia may recommend additional cardiac testing or a consultation to assess your overall cardiovascular health.
How Long Does an Implantable Loop Recorder Stay In?
An implantable loop recorder can remain in place for up to three years, or until a diagnosis has been made and the device is no longer needed. Removal is a simple, minimally invasive procedure similar to the original implant. Dr. Nia will discuss the expected monitoring timeline with you based on your specific symptoms and diagnostic needs.
Where Can Patients Find an Implantable Loop Recorder Procedure Near Hackensack, NJ?
ACI is located at 363 Prospect Ave in Hackensack, NJ — just look for the big green house. The office is on the first floor with convenient parking and elevator access, making every visit easy and stress-free. We offer online scheduling, and Dr. Nia and his team are ready to welcome you. Request an appointment today. We look forward to seeing you.