Multimodality imaging in patients with implantable loop recorders: Tips and tricks.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Implantable loop recorders (ILRs) are crucial for diagnosing cardiac rhythm disturbances, especially in patients with unexplained syncope.
• The increasing elderly population and use of ILRs highlight their clinical significance.
• Recognizing ILRs on imaging can be challenging due to their appearance and differentiation from other cardiac devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on implantable loop recorders (ILRs).
• To familiarize clinicians and radiologists with ILR imaging features, safety considerations, and artifact reduction techniques.
• To detail ILR appearance on various imaging modalities, including X-ray, mammography, CT, and MRI.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review on implantable loop recorders (ILRs).
• Analysis of ILR characteristics and diagnostic imaging appearances.
• Discussion of safety issues and artifact mitigation strategies, particularly for MRI.

Main Results:

• ILRs are leadless, subcutaneous devices for long-term ECG monitoring.
• They are radioopaque and visible on multiple imaging modalities.
• Common imaging features, artifacts, and MRI safety concerns are detailed.

Conclusions:

• Familiarity with ILR imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
• Understanding artifact reduction and MRI safety optimizes the use of ILRs.
• This review provides a comprehensive guide for clinicians and radiologists regarding ILRs.