Name of the Procedure:

External Patient and Auto Activated Electrocardiographic Rhythm Derived Event Recording with Symptom-Related Memory Loop with Remote Download Capability up to 30 Days, 24-Hour Attended Monitoring; Recording (includes connection, recording).

Summary

This procedure involves the use of a portable medical device that continuously monitors the heart's electrical activity for up to 30 days. The device automatically records abnormal rhythms and allows patients to manually log events when they experience symptoms. The data can be remotely downloaded and is monitored by healthcare professionals around the clock.

Purpose

This procedure is used to detect and record abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) that may not be captured during a short-term electrocardiogram (EKG) in a doctor's office. The goal is to diagnose arrhythmias accurately, facilitate appropriate treatment, and improve the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Palpitations or irregular heartbeats
• Fainting spells (syncope) without a known cause
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Unexplained chest pain
• Suspected intermittent arrhythmias in patients with known heart disease

Preparation

• Patients should follow their normal routine unless otherwise instructed.
• They should wear loose, comfortable clothing to accommodate the device.
• No fasting or special preparations are typically required.

Procedure Description

1. Connection: The patient visits a healthcare facility where electrodes are attached to their chest.
2. Recording: The monitoring device is connected to these electrodes and continuously records the heart's electrical activity.
3. Memory Loop: Patients are instructed on how to press a button to mark the recording when they experience symptoms.
4. Remote Download: Data from the device is periodically downloaded remotely for review by healthcare professionals.
5. 24-Hour Monitoring: The monitoring team continuously checks the recordings and contacts the patient in case of critical findings.

Duration

The monitoring can last up to 30 days, but the connection and setup take about 30 minutes.

Setting

The initial setup is performed in a hospital or outpatient clinic. Continuous monitoring occurs remotely.

Personnel

• Cardiac technicians for setup
• Nurses or other healthcare providers for initial instructions
• Cardiologists or electrophysiologists for data interpretation

Risks and Complications

• Skin irritation from electrode placement
• Electrodes may become loose or uncomfortable over time
• Rarely, false alarms may cause unnecessary anxiety

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of intermittent arrhythmias
• Timely treatment interventions
• Improved management of cardiac conditions
• Enhanced ability to correlate symptoms with cardiac events

Recovery

• No significant recovery time is needed.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss findings and plan further treatment if necessary.

Alternatives

• Holter Monitor: Provides continuous ECG recording typically for 24-48 hours.
• Event Monitor: Similar device but only records when activated by the patient.
• Implantable Loop Recorder: A small device implanted under the skin that provides long-term monitoring.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Holter Monitor: Shorter monitoring period but captures continuous data.
• Event Monitor: Longer monitoring period but relies on patient activation.
• Implantable Loop Recorder: Long-term monitoring but invasive with minor surgical procedure required.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel self-conscious about wearing the monitoring device, but it is generally discreet.
• Pressing the event button may cause a brief interruption to daily activities.
• Some inconvenience from having to manage the device's battery and electrode placement.
• Minor discomfort from electrode adhesive, which is usually well-tolerated.
• Generally, pain is not a concern, and most patients adjust easily to the device.