20 September 2017

Cardiology team fit new type of pacemaker

A new heart device, the first of its kind in Kent, Surrey and Sussex, has been fitted into a local patient. The device acts as both a dual chamber pacemaker and a resynchronising device.

Unlike other similar devices it has a new multi sensor lead which is anchored into the vein, with a screw (0.2mm wide), rather than simply trying to wedge it into position. The ability to securely position the lead of the device into the vein improves the performance of the device and shortens the procedure time for the patient under a local anaesthetic.

Consultant Cardiologists Professor Nikhil Patel and Dr Rick Veasey with new heart device and lead

Consultant Cardiologists Professor Nikhil Patel and Dr Rick Veasey with new heart device and lead

This device provides treatment for patients with heart failure with the implantable pacemaker sending low levels of energy through thin leads to stimulate the heart muscle and improve the heart’s pumping efficiency.

Professor Nikhil Patel Consultant Cardiologist said: “With this new technology we are able to overcome the challenges of positioning a lead in the correct vein by screwing it securely into position. This improves the performance of the device and reduces the time of the procedure. Once fitted the new device it able to make suitable adjustments to control the patient’s heart beat it so giving them a better quality of life.”