Kuala Lumpur: The National Heart Institute (IJN) has made medical history by becoming the first centre in Southeast Asia to successfully implant the world's first dual-chamber leadless pacemaker system, the Abbott AVEIRS DR. Senior consultant cardiologist and Interventional Electrophysiology and Implantable Devices clinical director Datuk Dr Azlan Hussin said the achievement reflects IJN's commitment to setting new standards in cardiac care both in Malaysia and the region.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Azlan noted that the dual-chamber leadless pacemaker could revolutionise care for current patients and expand the number of people IJN can serve, including children. The new system eliminates traditional wires and surgical pockets, reducing risks such as infections and lead dislodgement. The long-term complication rate is comparable to conventional pacemakers, with 18 patients having received the device since its first implantation on May 27.
Dr Azlan highlighted the potential benefits of the AVEIRS DR system, including shorter procedure times ranging from 20 minutes to one hour, depending on the patient's condition. The system allows real-time pacing analysis, enabling accurate device placement during the procedure before final implantation into the heart chamber.
IJN chief executive officer Prof Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Ezani Md Taib acknowledged the higher initial cost of the procedure due to the new technology, but noted that IJN's charges are generally lower than those at most private hospitals. He emphasized that the adoption of such advanced procedures requires the right expertise and infrastructure, which IJN is equipped to provide.
Dr Mohamed Ezani stressed that innovation at IJN isn't merely about introducing new technology but creating meaningful impacts. The AVEIRS DR implantation reinforces IJN's role as a regional leader in cardiac care. He also highlighted the importance of awareness and early intervention in tackling cardiovascular disease, which remains a significant health challenge in Malaysia.
The AVEIRS DR system represents a breakthrough in cardiac pacing, designed for patients with slow or irregular heart rhythms. Unlike traditional pacemakers, it consists of two miniaturised devices implanted into the heart's right atrium and ventricle, providing synchronised pacing without the risks associated with leads. Its minimally invasive design offers long-term retrievability and future adaptability.
In 2018, IJN made history by being the first hospital outside the United States to implant the world's smallest pacemaker, the Micra AV.