Holter monitor
Pronunciation: HOL-ter
A portable device that continuously records heart rhythm for 24-48 hours to detect intermittent arrhythmias.
Full Definition
A Holter monitor is an ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring device that patients wear for extended periods, typically 24 to 48 hours, to capture cardiac rhythm abnormalities that may not be present during brief office visits. The device uses multiple electrodes connected to a small recording unit that stores continuous ECG data. Patients maintain a symptom diary to correlate activities and symptoms with recorded rhythms. Holter monitoring is particularly valuable for detecting paroxysmal arrhythmias, assessing arrhythmia burden, evaluating pacemaker function, and monitoring antiarrhythmic drug efficacy. The recorded data is analyzed using computer algorithms and reviewed by trained technicians and physicians.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Norman Holter; capitalize when referring to the specific device type.
In Context
- "The Holter monitor revealed frequent episodes of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia during sleep." — Diagnostic report
- "Patient compliance with Holter monitor wearing instructions is crucial for accurate results." — Patient education material