Implantable Loop Recorder (ILR)

The implanted device works by constantly recording and deleting on a loop. It will only store information in one of 2 ways.

We can monitor your heart rhythm from your ILR either via a home communicator, or the MyCareLink Heart mobile app. At implant you will be set up with one of these options based on your preference.

At implant, you’ll be provided with a QR code to scan to direct you to the app, or search “MyCareLink Heart” in your App store. Your ILR communicates to your app via Bluetooth, and therefore it is important to keep Bluetooth enabled at all times and the app open in the background (this will have a minimal effect on your phones battery).

Ensure your smartphone is connected to Wi-Fi or cellular service to send information to the clinic.

Using the App select “Record New Symptoms” and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the transmission.

This is what the monitor looks like:

As soon as you get home it is important that you plug your home monitor into the mains, ideally at your bedside, and follow the set-up guide given to you at implant. Once set-up is complete leave the monitor home plugged in at all times.

1. When you experience your symptoms, press and release the blue button. The searching light will start to flash blue.
2. Quickly hold the patient activator flat against your chest over the implanted device.
3. When a symptom is successfully marked, the success tone will sound and success light will illuminate green. If this does not occur within 15-20 seconds, please repeat steps 1-2.
4. Please document why you used the symptom activator each time.

In case of an emergency please call 999. The device is only a monitor.

At implant the nurse practitioner will set up your ILR to work the best way for your age and symptoms. In device clinic, the nurse will view any episodes, monitor the device battery, and ensure your wellbeing and symptoms.

You should expect your first check (face to face or virtual) 1 week after your device implant. We will email and contact you in advance to confirm your attendance. After this check, your device should be checked at least once every 6 months. However, on some occasions we may need to see you more frequently. If this is necessary, it will be explained to you at your check.

In the meantime, we will receive further information from your device should your ILR detect an abnormal heart rhythm, or you make a symptom activation. If you encounter any issues with your MyCareLink App or Relay monitor / communicator, please call the dedicated Carelink Helpline on 0800 266 632 82.

ID card:

You will have been given an ILR identity card. This includes your details and the details of your ILR. You should always carry this card with you. If you are admitted to another hospital, you should show this card to the healthcare professional looking after you. You will also be required to show this card when travelling through security at any airports. This will be discussed further in the ‘travelling’ section.

Wound:

Please keep the dressing dry and wound covered for 7 days (10 if you are diabetic). During the first few hours if some minor oozing appears the dressing, do not be concerned, this is normal. Please press on the centre of the dressing for 15 mins. If this continues and becomes sodden, please go to A&E to have the wound assessed.

Avoid wearing tight clothing over the wound until it has healed completely to avoid excess rubbing. You will probably be able to feel the device under your skin, this is normal. It is important that you don’t try to move the device. The device site can be uncomfortable for the first few weeks, as your body becomes accustomed to the device.

If you ever notice the device site looking silvery or can see any of the device, urgently call device clinic.

If you would like more information, advice and support regarding your cardiac device, please contact the device clinic. You are welcome to talk to the stroke nurse practitioners or stroke consultant about your concerns or we have Specialist Arrhythmia Nurses who you can arrange to see. Also, there are external services below who provide support for patients with cardiac devices such as Arrhythmia Alliance and British heart foundation.

Driving:

There are no limitations to driving with this device.

Travelling:

When traveling abroad you must inform the airport security staff that you have an ILR. Please show your ID card to them, they may direct you to an X-ray or to be patted down and/or hand-held scanned. Do not panic if required to walk through the large magnetic metal detectors. You are likely to cause the detector to alert as your device is metal. It will not cause harm to the device. They may also decide to use a hand-held scanner.

Ensure you tell the security staff that you have an ILR so they are aware this may set alarm the scanner. If you are to be away for a long period (over 1 month) you can take your remote monitor with you. Please contact the device clinic about this.

Electrical equipment:

Your device has no limitations to electrical equipment that can be used with the device.

Hospital equipment:

Most equipment used in hospitals is safe, including X-rays, CT scans and mammograms. Modern devices are safe with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines.

If you are referred for a MRI scan, ensure the referring doctor is aware of your device and schedules a download with the device clinic prior to the MRI. Ensure you inform the healthcare professionals that you have an ILR before any procedures or investigations and take your ID card with you whenever you attend a hospital or dental appointment.

An ILR battery usually lasts between 3-4 years.

National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery
Basil Samuel Outpatients Clinic
Reveal Implantation Room
33 Queen Square London
WC1N 3BG

Direct line: 020 3448 3795
UCLH Switchboard: 0845 155 5000
Clinic Appointments: Monday - REVEAL Implantation
Nurse Practitioners: 07950884022 / 07816083497
Email: UCLH.tianeuroclinic@nhs.net