Injectable pacemaker invented to stabilize heart rhythm
Scientists from Lund University in Sweden have developed an innovative temporary injectable pacemaker. It can effectively correct cardiac arrhythmias in emergency situations.
The new pacemaker is a syringe with an ultra-thin needle. When inserted into the patient's chest, it forms an electrically conductive polymer hydrogel that acts as an electrode around the heart. This allows ECG measurements to be taken and the heart to be stimulated with low-power electricity to regulate its rhythm.
The gel should correct the arrhythmia for 5 days, giving the patient time to get to the hospital for more precise treatment. It then dissolves in the body, eliminating the need for surgical removal.
Testing on zebra and chicken embryos has shown that the gel is not toxic to the subjects and does not cause changes in body behavior either during or after application of the development. The next phase of research includes testing on larger animals such as pigs, which are closer to human physiology.
The team also plans to develop a mobile application to manage the pacemaker.