An External Loop Recorder (ELR) is a small, portable device used for long-term heart rhythm monitoring. It continuously records your heartbeat over days or weeks and is especially useful for detecting intermittent arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms) that may not appear on a short ECG or even a 24-hour Holter monitor.
● Small electrodes are attached to your chest and connected to a recorder worn on
your waist, belt, or shoulder strap.
● The device continuously monitors your heart’s electrical activity.
● When you feel symptoms like palpitations, dizziness, or chest pain, you can press a
button to “mark” the event.
● The recorder saves the heart rhythm data before, during, and after the event for your
doctor to review.
An ELR test is particularly useful when:
● Symptoms are infrequent or unpredictable (happening once in weeks).
● A 24-hour Holter monitor is not long enough to capture the event.
● Doctors suspect arrhythmias such as:
Atrial fibrillation
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
Unexplained fainting (syncope)
Your cardiologist may suggest an External Loop Recorder if you:
● Experience occasional palpitations or fluttering heartbeat
● Have dizziness, fainting spells, or unexplained blackouts
● Show abnormal ECG findings but need further evaluation
● Have a family history of sudden cardiac arrest or arrhythmia
● Require long-term rhythm monitoring for treatment planning
● Lightweight, wearable, and safe
● Detects arrhythmias that other tests may miss
● Provides a more complete picture of heart rhythm over time
● Helps guide accurate diagnosis and treatment decisions
✨ An External Loop Recorder (ELR) is an advanced tool for diagnosing hard-to-detect heart rhythm problems, especially when symptoms are occasional and unpredictable. It plays a crucial role in preventing complications through timely diagnosis and care.
