Holter Monitoring (Ambulatory ECG Monitoring)

Holter monitors are medical devices that record the heart's electrical activity. Doctors often use these monitors to diagnose arrhythmias, detect silent (symptomless) myocardial ischemia, and evaluate whether treatments for an arrhythmia or silent myocardial ischemia are effective.

A Holter monitor is similar to an ECG (electrocardiogram), but while a standard ECG only records the heartbeat for a few seconds, it may not detect heart rhythm problems that don't occur during the test.

Some heart rhythm problems only occur during specific activities, such as sleeping or physical exertion. Using a Holter monitor increases the likelihood of capturing these irregularities.

Special Instructions

• Please take a shower before the test if you wish, as you will not be able to shower during the recording period.

• Do not wear body lotion or perfume on the day of your test.

• There are no pretest dietary restrictions.

• Continue taking any prescribed medications before and after the test unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

During the Test

Holter monitoring is a painless procedure. A technician will attach sticky patches called electrodes to the skin on your chest. For male patients, the technician may need to shave small areas of the skin to help the electrodes adhere properly.

• Do not shower or immerse the device in water while wearing it.

• The Holter monitor is a small, portable device that can be worn during your normal daily activities.

• You will be asked to record any symptoms you experience in a Patient Diary provided to you.

• The entire preparation and explanation process will take about 15 minutes.

Holter monitors are delicate and expensive medical devices. You will be asked to sign a responsibility form agreeing to return the device on time and in good working condition.

After the Test

Once the monitoring period prescribed by your physician is complete (whether 24, 48, 72 hours, or up to 14 days), a technician will remove the electrodes from your skin. You will also be required to return your Patient Diary for evaluation. Mild redness may occur where the ECG patches were attached, but this typically resolves on its own without treatment. You can resume your regular daily activities immediately after the removal of the electrodes.

Test Results Interpretation and Follow-Up:

Please note that the technologists performing your test or the staff will not be able to discuss the results with you. All test results will be interpreted by a cardiologist and sent to the referring physician. You can then discuss the results and any further steps with your physician.

If your test was ordered by the cardiologist you have seen for consultation at our clinic, the consulting cardiologist will review the results and will communicate with our administrative team regarding the next steps.

Important Information for Your Appointment

Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled test to register at the reception desk.

Bring the following items:

• Your valid OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) card (to each scheduled appointment).

• A requisition form, if provided to you directly by your physician.
  (Note: If your physician did not fax the referral to our office, you must bring the requisition form signed by your physician to your appointment.)