General Holter Monitor Information

A Holter monitor is a small, portable monitor that measures electrical activity. Typically worn for at least 24 hours, the Holter monitor’s most common use is for monitoring heart activity (electrocardiography or ECG). Its long recording time is quite useful for observing occasional cardiac arrhythmias or epileptic events (when used for monitoring brain activity). For patients having more transient symptoms, a cardiac event monitor which can be worn for a month or more can be used.

When used for the heart, the Holter monitor records electrical signals just like an ECG/EKG does. The number and position of electrodes varies by model, but most Holter monitors use 3-8 electrodes. The actual monitor device is small enough to attach to a patient’s belt and these devices are getting smaller and smaller as technology advances. Although 24-hour and 30-day event recorders are available, they may be used for less than or more than 30 days.

Holter Monitor Information for Clinicians

Holter Monitor Information for Patients

Image source: edited from original found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Holter_monitor.JPG