Leadless cardiac pacemakers: present and the future. (January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chew, Derek S.; Kuriachan, Vikas
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in cardiology. Volume 33:Number 1(2018:Jan.)
• Publication Date: 2018-01
• Subjects: cardiac pacing -- leadless pacing -- pacemaker; Cardiology -- Periodicals; Cardiology -- Periodicals; Heart Diseases -- Periodicals; Cardiology; Periodicals; 616.12
• DOI: 10.1097/HCO.0000000000000468
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0268-4705

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose of review: Pacing technology for many decades has been composed of a generator attached to leads that are usually transvenous. Recently, leadless pacemakers have been studied in clinical settings and now available for use in many countries. This includes the single-component Nanostim Leadless Cardiac Pacemaker and Micra Transcatheter Pacing System, as well as the multicomponent Wireless Stimulation Endocardial system. Recent findings: Clinical studies in single-component leadless pacing technology has shown that they can be successfully implanted with minimal complications. The follow-up studies also seem to confirm the findings from the initial clinical trials. These systems offer some advantages over a traditional pacing system comprised of a subcutaneous generator and transvenous leads. Summary: In many ways, these leadless systems are disruptive technologies that are changing the traditional pacemaker concept and preferred for some patients. Ongoing research is needed to better assess their long-term function, safety, and end-of-life strategies. In the future, multichamber leadless pacing is expected to be developed and perhaps obviating the need for transvenous leads and their associated complications.