Emerging Technologies for the Smallest Patients

Abstract

Pediatric and congenital heart disease patients may require cardiac implantable electronic device implantation, inclusive of pacemaker, ICD, and implantable cardiac monitor, for a variety of etiologies. While leads, generators, and monitors have decreased in size over the years, they remain less ideal for the smallest patients. The potential for a miniature pacemaker, fetal micropacemaker, improving leadless technology, and rechargeable devices creates hope that the development of pediatric-focused devices will increase. Further, alternative approaches that avoid the need for a transvenous or surgical approach may add more options to the toolbox for the pediatric and congenital electrophysiologist.

Keywords: Atrioventricular block; Cardiac implantable electronic device; Implantable cardiac monitor; Implantable cardioverter defibrillator; Miniaturization; Pacemaker; Pediatrics; Pericardial access.