SPRINGFIELD, PA — Crozer-Keystone Health System continues to advance its cardiovascular services with the addition of continuous cardiac monitoring.
Patients who suffer from certain cardiovascular conditions can benefit from this advanced technology through the Reveal Linq™ Insertable Cardiac Monitor (ICM). The device, which is smaller than a paperclip and weighs only 2.5 grams, is currently the smallest implantable monitoring device available. In comparison, other externally worn types of monitoring devices last for 24 hours up to 30 days.
The device can benefit patients who suffer from unexplained episodes of fainting, as well as other cardiovascular conditions including stroke, atrial fibrillation and seizures. The minimally invasive procedure is relatively painless, takes approximately 5 minutes and is performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. The device is inserted just beneath the skin in the chest area, and requires no recording pads or wires. It constantly monitors heart rhythms for up to three years. Data is continually sent to a central monitoring station and can be accessed by a cardiologist at any time, from any location.
In addition, if a patient suffers a fainting spell or other episode, they or a family member can press a button on a handheld tool to trigger the device and record the heart’s rhythm before, during and after the episode.
Benefits
The minimally invasive Reveal Linq™ Insertable Cardiac Monitor can benefit patients in many ways.
Because it is so small, the device is barely visible. Patients can continue to perform activities of daily living, including exercise, and can swim or bathe without fear of damaging the device. It’s safe to undergo an MRI with the monitor, and it’s just as simple to remove it when the time comes.
Results from continuous cardiac monitoring can help cardiologists determine if a heart rhythm disorder is causing the patient’s symptoms. Doctors can then tailor a treatment plan that may include medication and lifestyle modification, or additional procedures such as pacemaker or catheter insertion.
Crozer-Keystone has a longstanding history of cardiovascular excellence. Our board-certified, experienced specialists are trained to implant the continuous cardiac monitor and interpret results. They perform the procedure at convenient locations throughout Delaware County. Appointments are available at Crozer Brinton Lake in Glen Mills, Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland, Delaware County Memorial Hospital in Drexel Hill, Springfield Hospital in Springfield and Taylor Hospital in Ridley Park. For more information or to request an appointment, call 1-866-95-PULSE (1-866-957-8573) or visit crozerkeystone.org/heart.
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Photo caption: Smaller than a paperclip, the Reveal Linq™ insertable cardiac monitor is now available at Crozer-Keystone.
Mary Wascavage
Director, Public Relations and Marketing | Delaware County Memorial Hospital & Taylor Hospital
Phone: 610.284.8619 | Fax: 610.284.8606
