Implantable Cardiac Monitors

Implantable Cardiac Monitors (ICMs) are small devices placed under the skin to continuously track your heart’s rhythm.

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An Implantable Cardiac Monitor (ICM) is a small, electronic device that continuously monitors heart activity and records irregular heart rhythms. It is placed just beneath the skin in the chest area. This device is particularly useful for detecting intermittent cardiac arrhythmias that might not be captured during standard, short-term monitoring methods.

What is an Implantable Cardiac Monitor?

Why is the Procedure Performed?

The primary purpose of implanting a cardiac monitor is to diagnose heart rhythm irregularities that are sporadic and not detected by traditional monitoring systems.

  • To detect irregular heart rhythms that are hard to catch with standard monitoring

  • Often used during heart attacks to quickly reopen blocked arteries and limit damage

  • Recommended for or patients who experience unexplained symptoms such as fainting (syncope), palpitations, dizziness, or suspected arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation that occur infrequently.

  • Helps doctors make a more accurate diagnosis and create a treatment plan tailored to the patient

How is the Procedure Performed?

The implantation of an Implantable Cardiac Monitor (ICM) is a minimally invasive procedure typically performed under local anesthesia. Here is a brief overview of the steps involved:

  • Preparation: The patient is given a local anesthetic to numb the chest area where the device will be implanted.

  • Incision: A small incision, usually less than an inch, is made in the upper chest area.

  • Implantation: The monitor is inserted through the incision and placed just beneath the skin.

  • Closure: The incision is then closed with sutures, adhesive, or both. The entire procedure usually takes about 10 to 20 minutes.

What are the Risks and Benefits?

Benefits

  • Continuous and long-term monitoring of the heart's activity, providing valuable data for diagnosing arrhythmias.

  • Can lead to a more accurate and timely diagnosis, allowing for appropriate treatment interventions.

  • Minimally invasive with a quick recovery time.

Risks
As with any medical procedure, an Implantable Cardiac Monitor does involve potential risks. These may include:

  • As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks, though they are low. These can include infection at the incision site, bleeding, and, in rare cases, allergic reaction to the device.

  • There might be discomfort or minor pain at the implantation site, typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Preparing for Your Implantable Cardiac Monitor Procedure

What to Expect

You will be awake during the procedure, which typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes. The area where the monitor will be implanted, usually on the left side of the chest, will be numbed with a local anesthetic. You may feel pressure but should not experience pain. The device is small, about the size of a USB drive, and is inserted just beneath the skin.

How to Prepare for Your Procedure

  • Fasting: You may be instructed to not eat or drink anything for a certain period before the procedure, usually 8 hours.

    Medication: Continue taking your medications as prescribed unless advised otherwise by your physician. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking.

    Showering: You may be asked to shower with an antibacterial soap on the morning of the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.

Medications to Discuss Before the Procedure

  • Blood Thinners: Let your doctor know if you take blood thinners. Some may need to be stopped a few days in advance.

What to Bring with You

  • A complete list of all your medications, including supplements and over-the-counter items.

  • Identification and insurance cards.

  • Have the name and contact information of a family member or friend who can be reached if necessary. Please note: Someone will need to drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours after the procedure.

After the Procedure

  • Recovery: You’ll stay in a monitored recovery area for a few hours. Once you’re fully awake and stable, you can have fluids and a light meal.

  • Activity: Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity until cleared by your care team.

  • Wound Care: Follow instructions carefully to keep the insertion site clean and free of infection.

  • Medications: You may be prescribed blood thinners to prevent clotting—take them exactly as instructed.

Tips for a Healthy Recovery

  • Give yourself time to rest and recover. Listen to your body and do not rush back into your normal activities.

  • Over-the-counter pain medication can be used to manage any discomfort at the implant site.

  • Note any changes in your symptoms or any new symptoms and report these to your healthcare provider.

When to Call Your Doctor

  • If you notice redness, swelling, increased pain, or discharge at the incision site, contact your healthcare provider as these may be signs of infection.

  • While some discomfort is normal, severe or worsening pain is not and should be evaluated.

  • If you have any concerns about the device's operation or if it seems to be protruding or moving, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Have a Question? Check Here!

  • An Implantable Cardiac Monitor (ICM) is a small, electronic device that continuously monitors heart activity and records irregular heart rhythms. This device is particularly useful for detecting intermittent cardiac arrhythmias that might not be captured during standard, short-term monitoring methods.

  • You may need to stop eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure and review your medications with your doctor ahead of time.

  • You’ll be awake but relaxed, and a small tube (catheter) will be inserted through your wrist or groin to reach your heart. The procedure is usually not painful and takes one to a few hours.

  • While complications are rare, risks may include bleeding, infection, or an allergic reaction to contrast dye.

  • You will be monitored for a short time for any immediate complications. Since the procedure is minimally invasive, you can expect to go home the same day. You might feel some discomfort at the implant site, but this is usually mild.

  • You can usually return to regular activities within a day or two, but your doctor will give you specific instructions based on your health and how the procedure went.

  • Keep the area clean and dry. You will be instructed on how to bathe and when you can remove any dressings.

  • Call your doctor if you experience chest pain, trouble breathing, a fever, or unusual bleeding, swelling, or redness at the insertion site.

  • Once you’re fully awake and stable, you’ll be allowed to eat and drink—often starting with water and light food.

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