World’s smallest pacemaker is the size of a grain of rice

A groundbreaking pacemaker, the size of a grain of rice, is revolutionizing heart care for infants!

 This dissolvable device is powered by light, offering a non-invasive solution for newborns with heart defects. Designed to safely dissolve over time, it eliminates the need for follow-up surgeries, significantly reducing post-op risks like infection and blood clots. 

The device uses a small infrared light-activated switch to regulate the heart's electrical impulses, offering the same effectiveness as traditional pacemakers. Unlike earlier versions, this new pacemaker relies on light-based data transmission and a galvanic cell for power, making it incredibly compact—just 1.8 mm wide and 3.5 mm long. 

The device also shows immense potential for future applications, such as synchronization therapies for arrhythmias or integration into other medical devices like heart valve replacements. With its advanced technology, this pacemaker could transform cardiac care, especially in low-resource areas and for children in need of temporary heart support.

Incredible to see these advancements and a powerful reminder of how coming together can revolutionize medical technologies. 

Visit Intertek's Medical Resources page to learn more about how we can assist with preliminary testing, regulatory requirements, and testing for advanced medical products - https://www.intertek.com/medical/resources/