MidMichigan Medical Center - Gladwin issued the following announcement on Jan. 4.
Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist Shikha Sharma, M.D., recently performed the first miniature leadless pacemaker implant at MidMichigan Medical Center – West Branch. The Micra™ Transcatheter Pacing System is specifically designed for patients who have been diagnosed with bradycardia, a too-slow heart rhythm. The device, developed by Medtronic, is more than 90 percent smaller than a traditional transvenous pacemaker and is completely self-contained within the heart.
“This miniature pacemaker is a self-contained generator and electrode system,” said Dr. Sharma. “We implant the device directly into the patient’s right ventricle using a femoral vein transcatheter approach. The procedure is minimally-invasive and requires no chest incision and since the pacemaker is leadless, it also reduces complications.”
Additionally, because the device is implanted using a catheter and is completely self-contained within the heart, the patient has no chest scar and there is no visible bump or physical reminder of a pacemaker under the skin. “This also results in fewer post-implant activity restrictions,” she added.
Leadless pacemakers are not appropriate for all atrial fibrillation patients. Patients with sick sinus syndrome, also known as sinus node disease or sinus node dysfunction, are not currently candidates for this implant.
“This device is specifically designed for patients with permanent atrial fibrillation with bradycardia,” said Dr. Sharma. “We are extremely pleased to be able to bring this state-of-the art technology to the West Branch community.”
The Micra™ Transcatheter Pacing System is also currently being offered at MidMichigan Medical Center in Midland.
Those who would like more information about Dr. Sharma may visit www.midmichigan.org/sharma. For information about MidMichigan Medical Center – West Branch visit www.midmichigan.org/westbranch.
Original source can be found here.
Source: MidMichigan Medical Center - Gladwin
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