Holter ECG (continuous 24h-48h-72h recording)

Holter ECG (continuous 24h-48h-72h recording)

Continuous recording of the heart's electrical activity over 24 to 72 hours using a small portable device, to detect intermittent rhythm abnormalities.

What is it?

The Holter ECG is a test that continuously records the electrical activity of the heart over an extended period, usually 24 hours, but which can be extended to 48 or 72 hours depending on the indication. The patient wears a small recording device connected to electrodes stuck to the chest and goes about their normal daily activities throughout the recording. This test is particularly useful for detecting heart rhythm abnormalities that occur intermittently and may not be present during a standard ECG lasting only a few seconds. Paroxysmal arrhythmias, cardiac pauses, frequent extrasystoles and episodes of tachycardia are thus revealed on the continuous tracing. The Holter ECG is also invaluable for establishing a correlation between the symptoms felt by the patient (palpitations, faintness, chest pain) and possible rhythm abnormalities. The patient is asked to note in a diary the times of their activities and symptoms, allowing the cardiologist to compare them with the corresponding ECG tracing. At the Clinique Pasteur in Tunis, we use latest-generation devices, light and discreet, which ensure high-quality recording. The analysis is carried out by specialized software and then validated and interpreted by an experienced cardiologist.
Holter ECG (continuous 24h-48h-72h recording)

When is it indicated?

Intermittent palpitations

When the heart races in unpredictable episodes, a standard ECG lasting a few seconds may show nothing: the Holter records continuously to capture these moments.

Unexplained faintness or fainting

After fainting spells or episodes of faintness with no known cause, prolonged recording looks for a temporary slowing or racing of the heart.

Assessment of heart rate over 24 hours

The device observes how your heart beats throughout the day and night, at rest and during activity, to check that it adapts normally.

Follow-up of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

When this rhythm disorder occurs in short-lived episodes, the Holter shows how often and at what times the episodes occur.

Checking the effectiveness of anti-arrhythmic treatment

While on treatment for a rhythm disorder, the recording verifies that the abnormalities have indeed decreased and that the medication is doing its job.

Monitoring after ablation of a rhythm disorder

After a procedure to eliminate an arrhythmia, the Holter confirms that the rhythm remains regular and that there is no recurrence.

Evaluation of bradycardia or cardiac pauses

If the heart seems to beat too slowly or to pause, continuous recording precisely measures these slowdowns to decide on the appropriate course of action.

Assessment of nocturnal palpitations or paroxysmal breathlessness

Palpitations or shortness of breath occurring at night are difficult to observe during a consultation: the Holter monitors the heart during sleep.

Preparation

1Take a shower before the device is fitted, as showering will not be possible during the recording
2Wear loose, comfortable clothing
3Do not apply cream or lotion to the chest
4Bring a list of current medications
5Plan not to do intense sports during the recording

Procedure

1

The technician prepares the skin of the chest (shaving if necessary, cleaning)

2

5 to 7 adhesive electrodes are placed on the chest

3

The electrodes are connected by cables to a small recording device

4

The device is attached to the belt or worn on a shoulder strap

5

The patient receives a diary to note their activities and symptoms

6

The patient goes home and resumes their usual activities

7

After 24h, 48h or 72h, the patient returns to the clinic to have the device removed

8

The data is transferred to a computer for analysis

Duration

24 to 72 hours of recording; fitting and removal: 15 minutes each

Results

Holter analysis takes 24 to 48 hours. Results are sent to the prescribing cardiologist or given to the patient at a follow-up consultation.

Risks and side effects

Mild skin irritation at the site of the adhesive electrodes
Allergy to adhesive tape (rare, report any known allergy)

These risks remain rare. Your physician will inform you in detail before the examination.

Book an Appointment

Contact us to schedule your examination or request a quote.

Request a Quote +216 36 402 000

At a glance

Duration: 24 to 72 hours of recording; fitting and removal: 15 minutes each
Preparation: Required
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