Scientists at Northwestern University in Illinois have developed a pacemaker that is smaller than a grain of rice and can even be accommodated in the tip of a syringe. It is meant for temporary use, particularly in babies, and presents a non-invasive option for heart patients who require short-term pacing.
In contrast to old pacemakers that need to be implanted and removed with surgery, this new device may be injected into the body and naturally dissolves once it’s no longer required.
Self-Dissolving Design Eliminates Need for Surgery
Traditional pacemakers are subject to a second surgery for removal, making the process more invasive and expensive. But the miniature pacemaker, designed by a team headed by bioelectronics pioneer John A. Rogers, simply dissolves after its mission is accomplished.
We’ve created what we think is the world’s smallest pacemaker. Miniaturization is critical for pediatric heart surgeries. The smaller, the better,” Rogers stated.
Northwestern cardiologist Igor Efimov highlighted the advantages of the device for kids with congenital heart defects.
About 1% are born with congenital heart defects, but the majority need only temporary pacing following surgery. Within about seven days, their hearts heal on their own. This small pacemaker can tide them over that critical time, without needing a second surgery for removal,” Efimov said.
How the Pacemaker Works
The device is accompanied by a flexible wireless patch worn on the chest. If the patch senses an abnormal heartbeat, it sends a light signal to stimulate the pacemaker.
Rather than wires, the device runs on a small battery that draws power from the body’s fluids. In contrast to previous pacemakers that used radio signals, this new model utilizes light-based technology, which makes it much smaller and more efficient.
“We developed a light-based system to turn the pacemaker on and off,” Rogers stated. “This helped us significantly reduce its size.”
Expanding Medical Possibilities
The researchers believe this breakthrough could transform pediatric heart surgeries, allowing doctors to place multiple pacemakers in different heart regions to better synchronize rhythms.
“This technology has a lot of potential. It can be applied not only to heart disease but also to repairing nerves, bones, and even pain relief,” Rogers added.
With its advanced design and promise of extensive medical uses, this miniature pacemaker is poised to revolutionize heart treatment, especially for children.