Journal Mobile

Author(s): 
N Grubb
Journal Issue: 
Volume 36: Issue 2: 2006

Format

Abstract

 

‘Device therapy’ refers to the use of implantable electronic devices to improve cardiac rhythm and function.  Permanent pacemakers, initially developed in  the  1960s  to  prevent  bradycardia  in  patients  with  sinus  node  disease  and atrioventricular  block,  represented  the  first  wave  of  implantable  devices  that transformed  cardiology  practice.   These  devices  are  now  commonplace,  and advances  in  microprocessor  and  battery  cell  technology  mean  that  pacemakers are  small  and  highly  programmable  to  patients’  individual  requirements.   Since then, this  same  technological  revolution  has  led  to  the  development  of  other implantable  devices  used  in  the  treatment  of  patients  with  life-threatening ventricular tachyarrhythmias and with heart failure. The main focus of this article will be on these new advances in device therapy.

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