Procedures
What is an Implantable Cardiac Monitor (ICM)?
Implantable cardiac monitors, like the BIOMONITOR, are mini-electrocardiogram (ECG) devices which are implanted just under skin in the left chest area. They continuously record the heart’s rhythm and automatically detect any irregularities. All clinically relevant data is stored. The data is transmitted wirelessly via the BIOTRONIK Home Monitoring® system, ultimately reaching your physician. The physician will be able to see, whether and what kind of irregular heartbeats – arrhythmias – occur. This information is crucial to identify the cause of the symptoms you experience and decide on the best course of treatment.
BIOMONITOR Injection Procedure
The procedure to inject a BIOMONITOR is performed under local anesthesia and only takes a few minutes. The procedure takes place in a hospital or medical office. To inject the BIOMONITOR, a physician will make a very small cut (11 mm long) in the upper chest. The physician will insert the heart monitor with a specially designed tool. After the cardiac monitor is placed successfully, the physician will remove the injection tool. BIOMONITOR remains in place underneath the skin. The physician will close the incision with some medical tape or with a few stitches.
After the Procedure
After the short and simple procedure, you may stay in the hospital overnight but usually leave the same day. Listen carefully to your physician and follow their instructions.
At home, monitor how the incision is healing. Your arm’s range of motion will probably be limited until the wound is completely healed. BIOMONITOR is a tiny device with a flexible antenna that adapts to your body’s natural shape. Most patients get used to it quickly and soon cease to notice it.
Your physician may give you a “Remote Assistant” that allows you to store an ECG whenever you experience symptoms. Place it over the implanted device, press the button, and BIOMONITOR will store the event. The BIOMONITOR will also recognize arrhythmias automatically and store their ECGs for evaluation.
After the BIOMONITOR injection procedure, patients can typically return to normal activities immediately. BIOMONITOR is protected against magnetic fields and electromagnetic radiation from other devices, so you may use usual household tools and devices without hesitation. BIOMONITOR includes ProMRI® technology, so patients may undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.