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The isotopic cardiac pacer: a ten-year experience
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Isotopic-powered pacemakers demonstrate superior longevity and reliability compared to traditional chemical battery pacemakers. This advanced technology may be crucial for future complex cardiac rhythm management devices.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Pacemaker failure has historically been attributed to battery limitations.
- Isotopic power sources offer theoretical advantages in reliability and longevity over chemical batteries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term performance of isotopic-powered cardiac pacemakers.
- To compare the longevity and reliability of isotopic pacemakers against chemical battery-powered pacemakers.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study of 79 isotopic (Plutonium 238) pacemakers in 75 patients over 10 years.
- Comparison with a control group of 93 chemical battery-powered pacemakers (VVI, VVIP, VVIM).
- Analysis of pacemaker types including VOO, VVI, VVIP, and VVIM.
Main Results:
- Isotopic pacemakers exhibited superior longevity and reliability compared to chemical battery pacemakers.
- Observed limitations in chemical battery longevity due to miniaturization and circuit complexity.
- Mercury zinc batteries became obsolete; lithium battery longevity was compromised.
Conclusions:
- Isotopic pacemakers provide a more reliable and longer-lasting power source for cardiac devices.
- The longevity of isotopic fuel cells may be essential for future complex dual-chamber pacemakers.
- Isotopic power is a promising solution for bradyarrhythmia and tachyarrhythmia control devices.
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