Recent innovations in the development of magnetic resonance imaging conditional pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators

The first generation of magnetic resonance conditional pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators has finally arrived in clinical practice after many years of development. These devices have been optimized to properly function within magnetic fields of 1.5 T and ensure safe operation in controlled environments. Further progress is needed to develop a new generation of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) conditional devices that can operate in higher powered MRI machines (3 T) which produce clearer images. (Cardiol J 2012; 19, 1: 98–104

New devices for very long-term ECG monitoring

Present day 24-h Holter monitors have been shown to miss many arrhythmias that may occur infrequently or under specific circumstances. The advancement in electronic and adhesive technologies have enabled the development of first generation wearable long-term 14-day patch ECG monitors that attach directly to the skin and require no electrodes and wires to operate. This new technology is unobtrusive to the patients and offers them unprecedented mobility. It enables very long-term monitoring of critical patients while they are carrying out daily activities. The monitors are waterproof, offer good adhesion to the skin and can operate as either recorders or wireless streaming devices. (Cardiol J 2012; 19, 2: 210–214