First dual-chamber leadless pacemaker procedure in Manatee and Sarasota counties

HCA Florida Blake Hospital successfully implanted a dual chamber leadless pacemaker system on Tuesday, July 30, marking the first such procedure completed in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. The groundbreaking system, recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June 2023, provides HCA Florida Blake Hospital with a new, minimally invasive option to treat the patients requiring pacing in two heart chambers.

"We are thrilled to bring this innovative technology to our community," said Steve Young, CEO of HCA Florida Blake Hospital. "We continue expanding our cardiovascular services to provide patients with top-tier treatments locally, ensuring they receive the highest quality care without needing to travel far from home."

The dual chamber leadless pacemaker, roughly one-tenth the size of a traditional pacemaker, reduces potential complications and offers a shorter recovery period post-surgery. The pacemaker is implanted through a minimally invasive procedure and doesn’t require any chest incisions.

Dr. Dilip Mathew, the electrophysiologist who performed the procedure, highlighted the benefits of the new technology. "This pacemaker system significantly reduces the risk of infections and complications associated with traditional pacemakers. Patients can expect a quicker recovery and a better quality of life post-surgery, with improved levels of activity and overall health. This advancement represents a significant step forward in cardiac care."

The pacemaker system consists of two devices placed in the right upper and right lower chambers of the heart. Unlike traditional pacemakers, which require wires to conduct electrical impulses, this technology eliminates the need for these wires. The system's wireless implant-to-implant communication technology allows the devices to work synchronously, enhancing patient outcomes.