New safer, reliable wireless pacemaker developed

A new self-contained leadless cardiac pacemaker is a safe and reliable alternative to conventional devices, according to new research.
The new pacemaker reduces complications that have existed over the last 50 years associated with lead placement and performance and the pulse generator situated under the skin that have occurred with conventional pacemaker systems.
In the first trial of the leadless pacemaker, doctors implanted one in eight patients (average 82 years old, 75 per cent men) with no complications in an average 41 minutes.
Researchers measured the device's performance at implant, after the patient was discharged and during three-, six- and twelve-month follow-up sessions.

The study, which began in 2012, will continue until researchers have performance and safety results at 18 months.
The research was presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2014.