How a new technology is helping to regulate heartbeat

A new type of defibrillator has recently been launched, that has the potential to make regulating heartbeat a simpler and less time-consuming process. Until recently, the type of defibrillator generally used to monitor and regulate heartbeat, is known as a transvenous defibrillator – which employs a series of wires or leads to connect to the heart. When the device identifies any dangerous or erratic cardiac activity, it administers a shock through the wires that enables the heart to revert to normalised heartbeat rhythms.

Whilst this process is often effective, it is not suitable for all patients suffering from heart-related ailments. Some patients will have hearts that are not physically able to accommodate the device, with no safe means of connecting the wires to the organ. Additionally, wires can also have harmful effects on the body and have the potential to cause blood clots and infections. Furthermore, as the design of conventional defibrillators is fairly complex, applying them often involves detailed, invasive surgery – which can be problematic if the device fails or malfunctions. Malfunction can also be dangerous as it may result in unsuitable or dangerous shocks being applied to the heart, and a rapid withdrawal of the device which can be extremely harmful to the patient.

The new type of defibrillator reduces these potential risks by not connecting with the heart directly. Instead, it has an electrode which is inserted just below the skin near the heart. Due to its proximity to the heart, it is able to monitor heartbeat as accurately as a conventional defibrillator, and when required, administer a shock to ensure that the patient’s heartbeat retains a normal rhythm.

This new type of technology is referred to as a subcutaneous implantable defibrillator in the medical community and has proven to be a popular alternative to regulating and restoring erratic heartbeat.