First Dual-Chamber Pacemaker Successfully Implanted in U.S. Teen
In a groundbreaking medical procedure, surgeons at the University of California, Davis, implanted a dual-chamber pacemaker into a 13-year-old girl suffering from a rare congenital complete heart block. This milestone case could pave the way for safer and more effective use of such devices in pediatric patients.
Addressing a Life-Threatening Condition
Congenital complete heart block disrupts the electrical signals between the atria and ventricles, leading to severe bradycardia and life-threatening complications. The teenager was admitted in a near-fainting state with a heart rate below 50 beats per minute. Given her condition, doctors opted for a minimally invasive procedure to implant the Aveir dual-chamber leadless pacemaker, a device 10 times smaller than traditional pacemakers.
A Swift Recovery and Promising Outcomes
The surgery was successful, with no reported side effects. Just three months later, the patient resumed her active lifestyle, including sports. Dr. Dan Cortes, who performed the operation, noted:
“Now, all patients, including children, can benefit from advanced pacemakers, enabling them to maintain unrestricted physical activity.”
This achievement highlights the safety and efficacy of dual-chamber pacemakers in pediatric care, though broader clinical studies are needed to standardize their use.
