Researchers at Lund University have developed an innovative injectable pacemaker that could change how heart conditions like arrhythmias are treated. This new device, known as the injectable heart stimulator, offers a less invasive option compared to traditional pacemakers and aims to improve emergency cardiac care.
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Key Features of the Injectable Pacemaker
- Injectable Design: The pacemaker is injected directly into the heart tissue using a needle thinner than a human hair, eliminating the need for open-heart surgery. This minimally invasive method can be used in emergency situations where traditional surgical options may not be possible.
- Heartbeat Regulation: The device delivers electrical impulses to the heart muscle, helping to regulate the heartbeat. It can adjust the heart rate in response to the body’s needs, providing a more natural and effective rhythm control.
- Biocompatibility: Made from materials that are compatible with the body, the pacemaker reduces the risk of rejection and complications. The materials are designed to be bioresorbable, meaning they dissolve naturally after use, eliminating the need for surgical removal.
How the Injectable Pacemaker Works
The device uses a solution of nanoparticles that self-assembles around the heart upon injection. This solution forms a conductive hydrogel, which adheres to the heart muscle and creates a pathway for delivering electrical stimulation. The pacemaker can be powered by an external source, such as a mobile phone, to control heart rhythms temporarily for up to five days.
Figure: created with biorender.com.
The injectable heart stimulator also integrates with the heart tissue to allow for real-time ECG measurements, which can help in monitoring and regulating heartbeats during critical situations.
Benefits of the Injectable Pacemaker
- Minimally Invasive: The injectable design makes it suitable for use in challenging environments, like remote areas or crisis situations, where traditional interventions might not be feasible.
- Temporary Solution: After serving its purpose, the device naturally degrades and is excreted from the body, reducing the risks associated with long-term implants.
- Emergency Use: This innovative pacemaker provides a critical solution in emergency situations, offering immediate heart rhythm support before a patient can reach the hospital.
Testing and Validation
The researchers tested the injectable pacemaker in animal studies using a chicken embryo heart model and zebrafish. These studies showed that the device could effectively stimulate heartbeats without causing any damage or adverse effects. The team plans to conduct further testing on larger animals before moving to human trials.
Seismocardiograpy setup to record heartbeats of zebrafish. Image source Nature.com
Potential Applications
The injectable heart stimulator could be particularly useful in emergency settings, such as during cardiac arrest or severe arrhythmias. It offers a quick, minimally invasive way to manage heart rhythms, especially when traditional pacemakers are not an option. The device could also be beneficial in situations where medical facilities are limited or access to advanced surgical care is unavailable.
Future Implications
The development of this injectable pacemaker represents a significant advancement in cardiac care, aiming to improve patient outcomes and reduce the risks associated with traditional pacemaker implantation. The innovation could help address some of the major challenges in cardiac care by providing a safer, more efficient way to manage heart conditions.
This new technology aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance emergency medical care, especially in remote or resource-limited settings. If proven successful in further trials, it could revolutionize how heart conditions are managed, offering hope to millions of patients worldwide.
Moving Forward
Lund University’s innovative approach demonstrates the potential of combining advanced materials science with medical technology to create new solutions for healthcare challenges. The injectable heart stimulator may soon become a vital tool in emergency cardiac care, potentially saving many lives. Researchers are optimistic that, with more testing and refinement, this technology will find its way into everyday medical practice.
By reducing the need for invasive surgery and offering a temporary yet effective solution for heart rhythm management, this new device could become a standard treatment option for many heart patients. The next steps will involve more comprehensive trials, followed by potential applications in human patients.
Conclusion
In summary, the injectable pacemaker developed by Lund University offers a groundbreaking approach to heart care. With its minimally invasive design, temporary function, and biocompatibility, it holds great promise for treating heart conditions, especially in emergencies. This innovative technology marks a significant step forward in cardiac care, providing new hope for patients worldwide.
Source : Lund University , New Atlas, Nature