Holter, Event and MCT Monitors

Monitoring your heart’s electrical activity is crucial in detecting irregularities that may not be apparent during a regular check-up. At HeartCare Texas, we utilize advanced technologies such as Holter monitors, event monitors, and Mobile Cardiac Telemetry (MCT) monitors to offer continuous and real-time insights into your heart’s performance. 

Our team of experienced cardiologists and healthcare professionals is committed to delivering personalized and precise cardiac care, guiding you every step of the way through the monitoring process.

What is heart monitoring?

Heart monitoring involves recording your heart rhythm, especially when experiencing an unexplained stroke or arrhythmia. This helps physicians identify irregular heartbeats and determine the appropriate treatment.

There are various heart monitoring systems, including Holter monitors, Event monitors, and Mobile Cardiac Telemetry (MCT). The type of monitor you use will depend on its durability and how much information it must provide.
 

Types of heart monitors

Holter monitor

A Holter monitor is a wearable device to track your heartbeat for 1 or 2 days as per your physician’s advice. It’s attached to your body with small patches (electrodes) that can stick to the skin on the chest and abdomen, monitoring and recording your heart's electrical activity through an ECG machine.

Event monitor

An event monitor tracks your heart's electrical activity, much like an electrocardiogram (ECG). However, unlike an ECG, you wear the event monitor for only 30 days; it doesn’t continuously record.

MCT monitor

Mobile Cardiac Telemetry (MCT) is a modern heart monitoring device that keeps track of your heart rhythm 24/7 for up to 30 days. It automatically records and sends your heart rhythms to a special center where doctors check them. This helps them quickly spot any irregular rhythms and take action.
 

When should a heart monitor be used?

When is a Holter monitor used?

A Holter monitor is recommended if a traditional ECG does not provide sufficient information. It helps to:

• Capture irregular heartbeats
• Assess unexplained strokes, dizziness, shortness of breath, or fatigue
• Determine the risk of heart disease
• Evaluate pacemaker function
   

When is an event monitor used?

Even if your regular heart test looks fine, your doctor may still suspect an irregular heartbeat based on your medical history. In such cases, an event monitor can be useful. Unlike a standard heart test, this monitor lets you record your heart's electrical activity when you feel symptoms.

It can also check how well your treatment is working if you're already being treated for an irregular heartbeat.

Some additional benefits of using an event monitor include:

• Assessing symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, and palpitations
• Checking the effectiveness of pacemakers or medications
• Monitoring heart rate and rhythm
• Tracking the recovery of patients recovering from a heart attack
   

When is the MCT monitor used?

The MCT Monitor is a state-of-the-art heart monitoring device that detects arrhythmias and aids in diagnosing symptoms. Its high efficiency guarantees superior service, enabling physicians to evaluate:

• Palpitations
• Chest pain, dizziness, and shortness of breath
• Non-life-threatening arrhythmias
• Recovery after cardiac surgery
• Medication effectiveness

This device enhances patient care by providing continuous heart monitoring.
 

How to prepare for using a heart monitor at HeartCare Texas

How should you prepare for using a Holter monitor?

• Avoid getting the device wet
• Stay at least three feet away from devices like microwaves, electric toothbrushes, razors, magnets, and metal detectors
• Avoid smoking during monitoring
• Follow physician instructions on how to wear the monitor and go about your daily activities
   

How can you prepare for using an event monitor?

• Ensure your skin is clean and has no oil, cream, or sweat before putting the patches
• Avoid being near electrical devices that may hinder the monitor's reading
• Inform your physician of any allergies that you have
• Follow exercise guidelines to prevent the patches from detaching due to sweating
• Keep a log of any symptoms you experience while wearing the monitor
• Learn to transfer the monitor reading over the telephone
   

What preparations are necessary for an MCT monitor?

• Clean the skin thoroughly with soap, water, and an alcohol swab before attaching the monitor
• Ensure the correct placement of electrodes and leads, connecting them properly to the telemetry unit
• Regularly check and maintain the device, including monitoring the battery status
• Perform a daily assessment of the device and its function