The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Vol 70, 2-8, Copyright © 1975 by The American Association for Thoracic Surgery and The Western Thoracic Surgical Association
In vivo study of a new radioisotope-powered cardiac pacer
NP Smyth, GJ Magovern, RG Ramirez, MH Diaz, CM Dixon, DC Fecht and A Johnson
A new radioisotopic pulse generator has been developed. It is 6 cm. long,
4.7 cm. high, 1.92 cm. wide, and weighs 61 Gm. (2 oz.). It is the smallest
pulse generator made and has a life expectancy of over 20 years. The
circuit is a conventional ventricular-inhibited (V.V.I.) type. In vitro
testing has passed all Atomic Energy Commission requirements. The present
study is concerned with in vivo testing of the complete pacemaker system,
by means of both myocardial and endocranial electrodes, in 20 dogs with and
without induced heart block. Extensive testing for electromagnetic
compatability was carried out on 1 animal with induced heart block and a
special, fast-rate pulse generator. Based on studies to date, the Atomic
Energy Commission has issued a license for limited clinical trial which has
already begun at the collaborating institutions.