Dysfunctional Implantable Loop Recorder Post-Electrical Cardioversion: A Report of Two Cases

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Electrophysiology

Background:

• Implantable loop recorders (ILRs) are used for long-term cardiac rhythm monitoring.
• Electrical cardioversion is a common procedure to restore normal heart rhythm.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report cases of implantable loop recorder (ILR) dysfunction after electrical cardioversion.
• To investigate the potential impact of electrical cardioversion on ILR function.

Main Methods:

• Case report of two patients experiencing ILR dysfunction post-cardioversion.
• Analysis of device function in relation to electrical cardioversion procedure and lead placement.

Main Results:

• Two instances of implantable loop recorder (ILR) dysfunction were observed immediately following electrical cardioversion.
• Dysfunction was likely associated with the anterior-posterior placement of cardioversion patches.

Conclusions:

• Electrical cardioversion, particularly with anterior-posterior patch positioning, may pose a risk to implantable loop recorder (ILR) function.
• Careful consideration of patch placement is recommended to mitigate potential interference with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices like ILRs.