holter monitor
Pronunciation: HOL-ter
Portable electrocardiographic device worn continuously for 24-48 hours to detect intermittent cardiac arrhythmias.
Full Definition
A Holter monitor is a battery-operated portable device that continuously records the heart's electrical activity over an extended period, typically 24 to 48 hours. Named after biophysicist Norman Holter, this ambulatory monitoring system captures cardiac rhythms during normal daily activities, sleep, and exercise. The device is essential for detecting paroxysmal arrhythmias, evaluating symptoms like palpitations or syncope, and assessing the effectiveness of antiarrhythmic medications. Modern Holter monitors can store up to 100,000 heartbeats and provide detailed rhythm analysis including heart rate variability and ST-segment changes.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize when referring to the specific device; lowercase when used generically as 'holter monitoring.'
In Context
- "The 48-hour Holter monitor study revealed episodes of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia during sleep." — Electrophysiology report
- "Patient compliance with the Holter monitor was excellent, capturing three symptomatic episodes of palpitations." — Ambulatory monitoring report