Abbott (NYSE: ABT) today announced the landmark completion of the initial human cases of leadless left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP). The pioneering procedures, conducted using Abbott’s investigational Aveir conduction system pacing (CSP) leadless pacemaker, are part of an exploratory study. These procedures represent the first instances of implanting a leadless pacemaker in the left bundle branch area. Abbott suggests this innovation could replicate the heart’s natural rhythm, offering a novel therapy for individuals experiencing bradycardia.
Conducted under the prospective Leadless CSP feasibility study, these procedures assess the Aveir CSP’s safety and efficacy. This fall, Dr. Petr Neužil, cardiology chief at Na Homolce Hospital in Prague, Czech Republic, collaborated with Dr. Vivek Y. Reddy of Mount Sinai Hospital, head investigator of the study, to perform these groundbreaking operations.
CSP involves the insertion of a conventional pacemaker deep within the cardiac wall, segregating the heart’s chambers and stimulating the left bundle branch area. This procedure aims to achieve physiological pacing by mimicking the heart’s inherent electrical pathway.
According to Abbott, combining CSP techniques with leadless pacemaker advances can offer distinct advantages. By dispensing with the need for cardiac leads and an implanted pulse generator, leadless systems minimize lead- and pocket-related complications.
Abbott’s Aveir CSP leadless system has received an FDA breakthrough device designation.
“Introducing our advanced leadless pacemaker technology to the left bundle branch area signifies a potentially significant advancement in cardiac healthcare,” said Randel Woodgrift, SVP of Abbott’s cardiac rhythm management division. “Our ongoing efforts to redefine pacing standards are poised to transform treatment for millions affected by slow or irregular heartbeats.”