Eastbourne Syncope Assessment Study II

Syncope (commonly called collapses or blackouts) is defined as loss of consciousness which is transient, self limiting and usually leads to falling. While the causes of syncope encompass a wide variety of factors, those due to heart rhythm abnormalities are acknowledged to be significantly more serious compared with other causes. The main aim of the study is to see if it is possible to find the cause of a patient\'s syncope faster using a device called an implantable loop recorder (ILR), which is implanted under the skin, versus conventional management. The device is slightly larger than a 50 pence coin and records the rhythm of the heart continuously. Although ILRs are being used widely today, we want to use a new model that is able to relay information to the doctor via wireless technology and internet. We also want to use ILRs earlier in diagnosing syncope, thereby avoiding unnecessary and lengthy hospital admissions and lowering cost. Primary aim: To see how soon the ILR detects abnormal heart rhythms or normal ones (in study subjects who faint/ suffer syncope). Secondary aims are: 1. To see how soon treatment is started once the abnormal rhythm is detected by the ILR. 2. To see which group (patients with ILRs or those receiving conventional tests) receives treatment sooner. 3. To see which group has less subsequent collapses i.e has benefited from appropriate treatment sooner. 4. To assess the cost effectiveness of using the implantable loop recorder more as a diagnostic tool for syncope versus conventional management (it should save many hospital admissions).