Maximising clinic efficiency using an implantable loop recorder with remote programming and monitoring for patients with cardiac disease

An implantable loop recorder is a device that can be surgically inserted into a patient to continuously monitor cardiac activity over a longer period of time. Data from these devices can be sent directly to a smartphone app and shared with the clinical team, allowing the patient to be monitored in the community. Implantable loop recorders are used to diagnose the causes of conditions such as syncope and detect atrial fibrillation in high-risk individuals. This article discusses the LINQ II device (Medtronic), an implantable loop recorder that has been developed to detect heart rhythms more effectively, handle larger quantities of data, improve the patient experience and streamline clinical workflows. The authors discuss the features and uses of this device, including an example of its implementation in a major NHS hospital in London.