Name of the Procedure:

External Electrocardiographic Recording for More Than 7 Days Up to 15 Days by Continuous Rhythm Recording and Storage; Review and Interpretation (Common Name: Long-term Holter Monitor)

Summary

This procedure involves wearing a small, portable device that continuously records the heart’s electrical activity for a period ranging from 7 to 15 days. The device stores the data which is later reviewed and interpreted by a healthcare provider to assess heart rhythm and identify any irregularities.

Purpose

This procedure helps diagnose and monitor heart rhythm disorders such as arrhythmias. By continuously recording for an extended period, it can detect sporadic irregularities that shorter monitoring might miss.

Indications

• Unexplained fainting (syncope)
• Palpitations or irregular heartbeats
• Diagnosed heart conditions needing close monitoring
• Evaluating the effectiveness of treatments for heart rhythm issues
• Assessing the risk of future cardiac events

Preparation

• No fasting required.
• Patients may need to adjust certain medications but should follow the doctor’s instructions.
• Any necessary diagnostic tests, such as an initial ECG, should be completed beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. The patient visits the healthcare provider to get the Holter monitor attached.
2. The technician applies electrodes to the patient's chest, which are connected to the portable recording device.
3. The patient carries on with normal daily activities while the device continuously records heart rhythms.
4. After 7 to 15 days, the patient returns to the provider to have the monitor removed.
5. The recorded data is reviewed and interpreted by a cardiologist.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used

• Holter monitor
• Electrodes and adhesive patches
• Data interpretation software

Anesthesia or Sedation Details

• Not applicable

Duration

• The device is worn for 7 to 15 days.

Setting

• Typically performed in an outpatient clinic or a cardiologist’s office.

Personnel

• Cardiologist
• Nurse or medical technician

Risks and Complications

• Mild skin irritation or allergic reaction to adhesive patches.
• In rare cases, there can be issues if the equipment malfunctions or data is lost.

Benefits

• Provides a comprehensive assessment of heart rhythm over an extended period.
• Helps in identifying intermittent heart rhythm abnormalities.
• Assists in monitoring the effectiveness of cardiac treatments.

Recovery

• No significant recovery period.
• Patients should follow routine activities but avoid getting the device wet.
• A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to discuss the results.

Alternatives

• Short-term Holter monitoring (24-48 hours).
• Event or loop recorders.
• Implantable cardiac monitors.
• Pros and cons include shorter monitoring periods may miss sporadic events and invasive alternatives might provide continuous monitoring without the need for external equipment.

Patient Experience

• Generally comfortable as patients can continue normal activities.
• Avoiding water (e.g., swimming, showering) is necessary to keep the device dry.
• Pain is minimal; primarily related to skin irritation from electrodes if any.
• Comfort measures include using hypoallergenic adhesives for sensitive skin.