Can a Loop Recorder Detect a Heart Attack?

If you experience symptoms such as an irregular heartbeat or unexplained fainting, your healthcare provider may recommend an implantable loop recorder to monitor your heart’s electrical activity. While this device provides valuable long-term data, it’s important to understand what a loop recorder can and cannot do regarding heart attack detection.

A clear understanding of this technology helps you work with your care team to protect your heart health.

What Is a Loop Recorder?

A loop recorder, also called an insertable cardiac monitor (ICM), is a small device implanted under the skin of the chest. It continuously tracks your heart’s rhythm, functioning like a long-term electrocardiogram. Unlike short-term monitors, which record for 24 to 48 hours, a loop recorder can monitor your heart for up to three years.

Providers often recommend a loop recorder when other tests have not captured the cause of infrequent symptoms. Because it monitors for such an extended period, the device is more likely to record an abnormal rhythm during one of these episodes.

How Is a Loop Recorder Implanted?

This minor procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia. A provider makes a small incision in the chest area, creates a pocket under the skin, and places the device inside. The incision is then closed with stitches or surgical glue, and most patients go home the same day.

Once implanted, the device automatically records if the heart rate becomes too fast or too slow. Patients may also activate the recorder using a handheld tool if symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, or lightheadedness occur. Data is sent to the provider remotely for ongoing review.

The Role of a Loop Recorder in Heart Attack Detection

A common question is whether a loop recorder can detect a heart attack. The short answer is no — a loop recorder is not designed to detect a heart attack. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked, which is a circulation problem. A loop recorder monitors the electrical rhythm of the heart, not blood flow.

While a heart attack may cause rhythm changes that the device can record, it cannot identify the underlying blockage itself. For this reason, a loop recorder is not a tool for diagnosing a heart attack as it happens. Its primary value is helping detect arrhythmias that may occur after a cardiac event.

Knowing the Signs of a Heart Attack

Because a loop recorder does not detect heart attacks, it’s essential to recognize the symptoms and seek immediate help if they occur. Common signs include:

• Chest discomfort
• Chest pain
• Pressure or squeezing sensation
• Pain in the arms
• Pain in the back
• Pain in the neck
• Pain in the jaw
• Trouble breathing
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Cold sweat
• Nausea or vomiting

Women may also experience unusual fatigue, indigestion, or discomfort that doesn’t feel like typical chest pain. If you notice symptoms of a possible heart attack, call 911 immediately.

Partner With Us to Protect Your Heart Health

While a loop recorder is an excellent tool for identifying rhythm disturbances, it cannot replace recognizing the urgent symptoms of a heart attack. Understanding your devices and knowing when to seek emergency care are key to protecting your health.

If you have questions or concerns about your overall heart health, call 1.855.404.4508, visit our provider directory to find a Baptist Health cardiology provider, or take a Health Risk Assessment to better understand your heart health risks.