Heartbeat-powered pacemaker may pave way for self-sustaining devices
Overview
A preclinical study demonstrates a leadless intracardiac pacemaker powered by energy harvested from cardiac motion.
Background
Leadless pacemakers are increasingly relevant in managing patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices, particularly those with complications from traditional systems. This study explores the feasibility of a novel energy-harvesting mechanism.
Data Highlights
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Output Voltage | 14.2 V |
| Maximum Output Current | 1.1 μA |
| Average Charge per Cardiac Cycle | 33 nC |
| Capacitor Charge Time | 653 seconds to 3 V |
| Volumetric Power Density | 277 μW/cm³ |
Key Findings
- The leadless pacemaker generated sufficient electrical output to pace the heart using energy harvested from cardiac motion.
- In vivo testing showed stable pacing with heart rate increases from 92 to 100 bpm and 75 to 120 bpm.
- Electrical output remained stable after exposure to accelerated fatigue testing, simulating long-term use.
- The device was successfully implanted using standard clinical methods without complications.
- Chronic evaluation indicated preserved cardiac function and no significant adverse effects.
Clinical Implications
Further studies are necessary to evaluate long-term safety and performance in larger animal cohorts.
Conclusion
Further research is needed to confirm long-term viability.
Related Resources & Content
- Pengfei Chen et al., Science Advances, 2023 -- Self-sustaining leadless intracardiac pacemaker powered by triboelectric nanogenerator
- MDSpire News — Recycled Pacemakers May Offer Solution for Patients With Limited Access to Care
- MDSpire News — Leadless Pacemaker-ICD Study Exceeds Safety and Performance Goals
- Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine — Case Report: Sequential leadless pacing after battery depletion in a patient with recurrent device-related infection
- Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine — Preventing complications in cardiac pacemaker therapy: a lifecycle-based risk management framework
- Recycled Pacemakers May Offer Solution for Patients With Limited Access to Care
- Leadless Pacemaker-ICD Study Exceeds Safety and Performance Goals
- Case Report: Sequential leadless pacing after battery depletion in a patient with recurrent device-related infection
- 2026 HRS Expert Consensus Statement Update on Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Device Lead Management and Extraction
- Safety and efficacy of leadless pacemakers: A systematic review and meta-analysis - PubMed
- Self-sustaining leadless intracardiac pacemaker powered by triboelectric nanogenerator | JoVE Visualize
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