Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu underwent a procedure to implant a new-generation cardiac monitoring device, called an implanted loop recorder or Holter, into his chest at Sheba Medical Center. This device, likely the Reveal LINQ manufactured by Medtronic, continuously monitors his heart rate and transmits the data remotely to doctors. Professor Moti Chaim, Director of Soroka Medical Center’s Cardiac Electrophysiology and Pacing Department, provided information about the procedure in an interview with Ynet, which Matzav.com has adapted here:
Q: What is a Holter?
“A Holter is a monitoring device worn by the patient to track blood pressure or heart rate. Typically, it is used for 24-hour monitoring, where the patient wears the device and transfers the data to a computer the next day for cardiological examination. The new generation of subdermal devices, like the one implanted in Netanyahu’s body, can provide recordings over long periods, ranging from months to years. The Holter is named after its inventor, Norman Holter from the U.S.”
Q: Which specific device was implanted in the prime minister’s body?
“Netanyahu was implanted with a loop recorder, a tiny device the size of a USB stick. It continuously monitors heart rate using partial channel tracing. In comparison, a traditional ECG device records 12 channels that monitor the heart from different directions.”
Q: How is the device implanted?
“The procedure takes a few minutes under local anesthesia and is inserted into the left pec area. Afterward, the patient is transferred to the recovery room and typically discharged after about two hours with instructions on device usage.”
Q: What does the device do exactly?
“The Holter records electrical signals from the heart based on pre-programmed settings. It can record at regular intervals, erase previous tracings, or capture abnormalities and symptoms such as fatigue or strong heartbeats.”
Q: How often does the patient need check-ups?
“The advantage of the subdermal Holter is its ability to transmit findings remotely. Cardiologists can review the data and provide instructions to the patient without requiring frequent in-person check-ups.”
Q: How long does the device last?
“The device can typically last about three years before it is removed through a simple procedure under local anesthesia.”
Q: Who is the device intended for?
“The Holter is used for cases of unexplained fainting, loss of consciousness, unexplained seizures, or suspected cardiac rhythm disturbances that regular ECG or Holter monitors cannot detect. It is not necessary for everyone and is employed when the patient’s condition remains unclear. Traditional ECG and Holter devices record more heart channels, allowing for more accurate readings.”
{Matzav.com Israel}
