Leadless pacing of the heart using induction technology: a feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Research
• Implantable Devices

Background:

• Traditional cardiac pacing systems rely on leads, which are associated with significant complication rates.
• Lead-related issues in cardiac pacing necessitate the development of leadless alternatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess the feasibility and safety of a novel leadless pacemaker system utilizing induction technology.
• To investigate the potential of wireless power transfer for cardiac pacing applications.

Main Methods:

• A leadless pacemaker system was designed, comprising a subcutaneous transmitter and an endocardial receiver implanted in the right ventricular apex.
• The system operates by converting an alternating magnetic field from the transmitter into electrical pulses by the receiver for cardiac stimulation.
• Feasibility was tested in a pig model, evaluating signal generation, implantation, and stimulation efficacy.

Main Results:

• The transmitter generated an alternating magnetic field of 0.5 mT at 3 cm distance.
• The receiver produced voltage pulses (0.4 ms duration, 0.6-1.0 V amplitude) capable of reliable cardiac stimulation.
• The receiver unit was securely fixated in the right ventricular apex during the study period.

Conclusions:

• Induction technology is a feasible approach for developing leadless cardiac pacing systems.
• The generated voltage pulses effectively stimulated the heart in vivo, demonstrating the system's potential.
• This technology offers a promising alternative to lead-based pacemakers, potentially reducing complications.