Authors' recommendations: Purpose of Technology: Despite extensive clinical evaluation, the mechanism of syncope (transient loss of consciousness) remains unexplained in a large portion of patients. Implantable cardiac loop recorders (ILRs) are small, battery-operated, electrocardiogram (ECG) monitors, inserted during a minor surgical procedure that evaluates patients with recurrent syncope of unknown origin for underlying arrhythmias. IRLs can record a patient's heart rhythm for up to 36 months. This feature enables detection of infrequent syncopal symptoms, which may only occur once every several months. Relevant Questions: Do ILRs provide a more accurate and timely diagnosis in patients with recurrent, unexplained syncope compared with other diagnostic modalities (e.g., standard ECG, external loop recorder, etc.)? Do ILRs provide information that improves treatment decision making and health outcomes (e.g., reduction in syncope recurrence, falls and fall-related injuries, sudden death)? Are ILRs safe for assessment of patients experiencing syncope? Have definitive patient selection criteria been established for use of an ILR for diagnosis of syncope?

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2016

URL for published report: The report may be purchased from: http://www.hayesinc.com/hayes/crd/?crd=39566

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: United States

Organisation Name: HAYES, Inc.

Contact Address: 157 S. Broad Street, Suite 200, Lansdale, PA 19446, USA. Tel: 215 855 0615; Fax: 215 855 5218

Contact Name: saleinfo@hayesinc.com

Contact Email: saleinfo@hayesinc.com

Copyright: 2014 Winifred S. Hayes, Inc