Implantable Loop Recorder in Diagnosis of Unexplained Syncope

Implantable loop recorder is a diagnostic method in cardiology, having a role in revealing the cause of recurrent unexplained syncope. For automatic recording, the device is equipped with bradycardia and tachycardia programmable options. Battery capacity is 14 months. The aim of the study was to investigate the use of loop recorder in the diagnosis of unexplained syncope. The study enrolled the patients with unexplained syncope who were consecutively referred to our Syncope Unit, either as outpatients or during hospitalization, in an 8-month period. This study included 17 patients with unexplained syncope (9 male, 8 female). Mean age range was 43±21.1 years. The first control was after 14 days, the second after 1 month, and the third control after 2 months of the study beginning. In case of symptoms appearance, the control examination was done immediately. Total follow-up period was 64±37 days. If the patients had positive finding, the implantation of permanent pace maker was done. Results: In 9 patients, the cause of syncope was verified and they received a permanent pacemaker. They had the pauses in heart action longer than 3 seconds. The shortest time to making the diagnosis was 14 days and the longest time period was 48 days. There was no severe irregular rhythm. Loop recorder is a very important diagnostic method with a role in revealing the cause of unexplained syncope. Acta Medica Medianae 2009;48(1): 12-14.