RAPID CITY, S.D. (May 31, 2023) – Monument Health Heart and Vascular Institute completed its first patient procedure with an Abbott leadless pacemaker – the world’s only leadless pacemaker designed to be retrieved.
Saverio Barbera, M.D., an Electrophysiologist at the Monument Health Heart and Vascular Institute performed the first successful implant of this new technology earlier this month. The Aveir VR leadless pacemakers provide new and more precise options to assist physicians in the treatment of patients with certain abnormal heart rhythms. Like other leadless pacemakers, Aveir VR does not require insulated wires – known as cardiac leads – to deliver electrical energy to the heart. The benefit comes as the device is implanted directly into the heart’s right lower chamber using a minimally invasive procedure.
Additionally, this new technology includes a longer battery life, which can last up to two times longer than existing leadless options.
“This pacemaker is another leap forward for our patients. The estimates for the longevity of the device’s battery are up to 25 years, which is utterly remarkable. It’s also beneficial that the device is capable of being upgraded with updated software. That means that the single lead device can transition to a dual chamber leadless system as soon as the FDA approves the upgrade, which is expected in the near future. Overall, this technology is a game changer in the field of cardiac pacing,” said Dr. Barbera.
“The Physicians and Caregivers at the Monument Health Heart and Vascular Institute continue to provide cutting edge treatments using the newest technology,” said Jake Staley, Director of the Heart and Vascular Institute. “We are always working to leverage the best technology to provide the highest quality outcomes for our patients. This includes the new leadless pacemaker that allows clinicians to measure electric signals to assess the correct placement of the device before final fixation within the heart.”
We are excited to offer Abbott’s new technology. This decision helps us continue to offer the best standard of care to patients and allows our physicians to concentrate on delivering quality care.
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About Monument Health
Headquartered in Rapid City, S.D., Monument Health is a community-based health care system with a mission to make a difference, every day. The system offers care in 31 medical specialties and serves 14 communities across western South Dakota and in eastern Wyoming. With over 5,000 physicians and caregivers, Monument Health is composed of 5 hospitals and 38 medical clinics and specialty centers. Monument Health is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.