MICRA® TPS Pacemaker

The world's smallest pacemaker, the size of a vitamin pill, is now at Hurstville Private. 

Cardiologist, Dr Calvin Hsieh, implanted our first MICRA® TPS Pacemaker in 80-year-old retiree, Angelo, in October, 2018. 

Angelo had been suffering from dizzy spells when standing, which were attributed to bradycardia, a slow and irregular heartbeat.

The pacemaker, which weighs less than a coin, delivers the most advanced pacing technology available to date.

One-tenth the size of a traditional pacemaker, MICRA® TPS sends tiny electrical impulses to pace the heart when the rhythm is too slow.

According to Dr Hsieh, the MICRA® TPS does not require surgical placement under the skin, and is implanted directly into the heart.

"The new pacemaker is attached to the inside wall of the heart via small prongs, and doesn't require wires or leads.

"The device is usually switched on after it is implanted and it delivers electrical impulses through an electrode at its tip," Dr Hsieh said.

"There are no visible signs of the device once it's implanted and it has a battery life of at least 10 years."

People with bradycardia usually have less than 60 - 100 heart beats per minute. At this rate, the heart is unable to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body during normal activity or exercise.

Bradycardia can lead to dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath or fainting spells. If left untreated, there is a risk the heart can stop.

For further information, or to book an appointment with Dr Hsieh, or, with one of our other cardiologists, contact the Hurstville Private Heart Centre on (02) 8197 3322.