Northwestern scientists develop injectable, dissolvable pacemaker

Northwestern University engineers have created an ultra-tiny pacemaker that can be injected through a syringe and naturally dissolves once it is no longer needed. Designed for temporary use, particularly in newborns with congenital heart defects, the device eliminates the need for surgical removal.

Smaller than a grain of rice, the pacemaker pairs with a wireless, wearable device on the chest that detects irregular heartbeats and activates the pacemaker using infrared light pulses. These pulses penetrate the skin and tissues to regulate heart rhythm.

Instead of traditional bulky batteries, the device generates power using a chemical reaction between metal electrodes and body fluids. The innovation eliminates the risks associated with wired pacemakers, such as infections or tissue damage during removal.

Published in Nature, the study demonstrated the pacemaker’s effectiveness in animal models and human donor hearts. Researchers believe this breakthrough could significantly improve temporary heart pacing, especially for pediatric patients.