Engineers from Northwestern University (Illinois, USA) have created an extremely compact pacemaker — its size can be compared to a grain of rice. Although the device is suitable for hearts of any size, it is particularly effective in cases involving newborns with congenital heart defects. About this informs Nature.
The system works together with a small wireless module that is attached to the patient’s chest and monitors the heart. In case of detection of rhythm disturbances, the module automatically transmits a light pulse that activates cardiac stimulation. The impulse penetrates through the skin, sternum and muscles, helping to normalize the heart rhythm.
The device is designed for temporary use – after the end of its operation, it does not need to be surgically removed, since all its components are made of biocompatible materials and gradually dissolve in the body. Scientists have already successfully tested the device on animals and human hearts obtained from donors.
“As far as we know, we have developed the world’s smallest pacemaker,” – noted Professor John A. Rogers, who led the development team.
Currently, traditional treatment involves surgical placement of electrodes directly on the heart muscle. Wires are led through the chest to an external device that provides heart stimulation. After the treatment is completed, the electrodes are removed.
Such an intervention carries risks — infection, electrode displacement, tissue damage, bleeding, or blood clot formation. The new pacemaker, thanks to the variable characteristics of the materials, allows you to precisely determine the time during which it will function before it dissolves.
The main target group for this device was newborns. According to statistics, congenital heart defects occur in 1% of babies, and after operations such patients often require temporary electrical stimulation. In most cases, the heart starts working on its own within a week, but this period is critically important. From now on, doctors will be able to install an extremely small device without the need for additional surgical interventions.
