Name of the Procedure:

External electrocardiographic recording for more than 7 days up to 15 days by continuous rhythm recording and storage; includes recording, scanning analysis with report, review and interpretation.
Common name: Long-term continuous Holter monitor.

Summary

This procedure involves wearing a portable device called a Holter monitor that continuously records the heart's electrical activity over a period of 7 to 15 days. The data collected by the monitor is analyzed to detect irregular heart rhythms and other cardiac issues.

Purpose

The procedure aims to diagnose and monitor heart conditions such as arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, or other irregular heartbeats. It helps to evaluate the efficacy of treatments or medications and to identify potential cardiac issues that may not be detected during shorter monitoring periods.

Indications

• Symptoms like palpitations, dizziness, or fainting that suggest a potential heart rhythm problem.
• Suspected intermittent arrhythmias that are not captured on standard ECG tests.
• Post-treatment evaluation for patients with known arrhythmias.
• Assessment of the effectiveness of cardiac medication or treatment.

Preparation

• The patient may need to avoid applying lotions or oils to the skin where the electrodes will be attached.
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing may make it easier to accommodate the device.
• Patients should maintain a log of activities, symptoms, and times when experiencing symptoms.

Procedure Description

1. Attachment: Electrodes are placed on the patient's chest, and wires connect them to a small portable Holter monitor device.
2. Recording: The monitor continuously records the heart's electrical activity 24/7 for 7 to 15 days.
3. Daily Life: Patients continue with their normal daily activities and keep a diary of any symptoms or activities.
4. Data Analysis: After the monitoring period, the data is retrieved from the monitor and analyzed by a healthcare professional.
5. Report and Review: A detailed report of the heart's activity is generated, reviewed, and interpreted by the clinician.

Duration

The monitoring period lasts between 7 and 15 days. Data analysis and review take additional time once the monitor is returned.

Setting

The procedure is initiated and concluded in an outpatient clinic or cardiology office.

Personnel

• Cardiologist or primary care physician.
• Nurse or technician for the attachment of electrodes and monitor setup.
• Cardiology specialist who reviews and interprets the data.

Risks and Complications

• Skin irritation or allergic reaction to the electrode adhesive.
• Discomfort from wearing the device for an extended period.
• Rarely, malfunction of the monitor which might require repeating the procedure.

Benefits

• Allows for continuous monitoring that can capture intermittent or infrequent cardiac events.
• Provides a comprehensive analysis of the heart's rhythm over an extended period.
• Can aid in tailoring treatment plans and adjusting medications.

Recovery

• No specific recovery period is required as the procedure is non-invasive.
• Patients can return to normal activities immediately after the monitor is removed.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results and any necessary treatment adjustments.

Alternatives

• Standard Holter Monitor: Monitors heart activity for 24-48 hours, but less effective for detecting infrequent arrhythmias.
• Event Monitors: Activated by the patient during symptoms, useful for capturing intermittent symptoms but less comprehensive.
• Implantable Loop Recorders: Provide long-term monitoring over months to years but require minor surgical implantation.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel the inconvenience of wearing the device continuously for up to 15 days.
• Mild irritation or discomfort from the electrodes is possible.
• Patients often feel reassured knowing their heart activity is being closely monitored.
• Detailed logs of symptoms and activities are essential for accurate correlating of data with daily life events.