| Abstract |
The implantable loop recorders consist, without any doubt, a revolution in the field of ambulatory electrocardiography the last years.
The clear advantage of these devices over the classical methods of ambulatory electrocardiography is the extended rhythm monitoring time. Additionally the small size of these devices allow the simple subcutaneous placement and a covenient to the patient function.
The superiority of these devices over the classical methods in monitoring patients with probable rhythm disturbances is not a surprise. Furthermore the magnitude of the literature concerning the insertable loop recorders is increasing.
Our contribution to this literature with this study has showed that the implantable loop recorders even though advanced and sophisticated, do have however some drawbacks and weaknesses, which we have to know well in order to correctly interprete our findings and dealing with our patients.
It is a fact that the aforementioned devices have some sensing problems. These problems consist of undersensing most commonly. Less often, oversensing is an other problem with these devices. Sensing errors could be avoided with device software improvements.
Despite of these disadvantages, the implantable loop recorders are considered the last years as the “gold standard” in the diagnostic approach of unexplained syncope.
However, even in nonsyncopal patients, in whom their condition is associated by an increased incidence of arrhythmias, these device provide us with valuable informations.
It true, that in patients with obstructive sleep apnea, there is a increased incidence of rhythm disturbances especially bradyarrthythmias, which is well known from the era of classical ambulatory electrocardiography. The extended time of monitoring using the implantable loop recorders provided to us the ability to evaluate with a improved detail the magnitude of the problem of rhythm disturbances of these patients.
Similar valuable findings in the evaluation of the impact of treatment of these patients on arrhythmia incidence are noted. Small differences of arrhythmia frequency as a result of CPAP therapy are extremely difficult to be recorded with the use of classical ambulatory electrocardiographic methods, but are recorded with the implantable loop recorders.
Without any doubt, the field in which modern technology with the implantable loop devices can be proven extremely useful is extensive. We hope that our contribution to the literature of the implantable loop recorders may aid to the understanding of the device itself and to the understanding of the nature of specific
conditions, accompanied by rhythm disturbances. More importantly, we hope that this study will be a useful background for future studies in the exciting field of ambulatory electrocardiography, and more specific, implantable loop recorders.
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Αξιολόγηση του διαγνωστικού ρόλου των εμφυτευόμενων συσκευών συνεχούς ηλεκτροκαρδιογραφίας σε ομάδες ασθενών με υψηλή επίπτωση καρδιακών αρρυθμιών
