Jersey Shore University Medical Center Is the First in Hospital in New Jersey to Implant Non-Surgical, Leadless Cardiac Pacemaker

Newswise — Neptune, NJ – September 19, 2014 – On September 5, Jersey Shore University Medical Center’s Electrophysiology team implanted the first Nanostim leadless pacemaker in New Jersey. The leadless pacemaker is a new, less-invasive approach than traditional pacemaker procedures that require more extensive surgery. The device, used to treat patients with an abnormally slow heart rate, took place as part of the Leadless II pivotal trial, a prospective, non-randomized, multi-center, international clinical study designed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the leadless pacemaker. Jersey Shore is one of only 50 centers in the United States chosen to take part in the clinical research study. The first implant procedure in New Jersey was performed by Ashish Patel, M.D., MPH, cardiac electrophysiologist at Jersey Shore. “The leadless pacemaker is an exciting innovation that allows us to implant a pacemaker using a non-surgical, minimally invasive technique. With no leads or generator, the miniature device is ‘hidden’ inside the heart. This clinical trial may ultimately show the Nanostim device reduces the risk of infection and quickens recovery time, so patients can get back to their regular activities,” says Dr. Patel. Cardiac pacemakers monitor the heart and provide electrical stimulation when the heart beats too slowly. More than 4 million people worldwide have an implanted pacemaker or other cardiac rhythm management device, and an additional 700,000 patients receive the devices each year. The leadless pacemaker is less than 10% the size of a conventional pacemaker – smaller than an AAA battery. It is the least invasive pacing technology available today. The new device improves patient comfort, and can reduce complications, potentially improving the quality of life for patients by allowing them to continue living active, uninhibited lifestyles. Jersey Shore University Medical Center is one of the largest cardiovascular programs in New Jersey. As part of Meridian CardioVascular Network, specialists at Jersey Shore offer the most complete, coordinated care from prevention and wellness programs to the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease to rehabilitation and recovery. About Jersey Shore University Medical Center:Jersey Shore University Medical Center, a member of the Meridian Health family, is a not-for-profit teaching hospital and home to K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital – the first children’s hospital in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Jersey Shore is the regional provider of cardiac surgery, a program which has been ranked among the best in the Northeast, and is home to the only trauma center and stroke rescue center in the region. Through the hospital’s clinical research program, and its affiliation with Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Jersey Shore serves as an academic center dedicated to advancing medical knowledge, training future physicians and providing the community with access to promising medical breakthroughs. For more information about Jersey Shore University Medical Center call 1-800-DOCTORS, or visit www.JerseyShoreUniversityMedicalCenter.com.