The first Bluetooth pacemaker in Poland implanted in Rzeszów
Doctors at the Provincial Clinical Hospital No. 2 in Rzeszów implanted Poland's first two-element, wireless pacemaker communicating via Bluetooth technology into a 77-year-old patient. The device, consisting of a component in the atrium and a second in the ventricle, synchronizes the heart's rhythm in real time. This is a breakthrough solution for people unable to wear traditional pacemakers.
The surgery took place on Wednesday at the Cardiology Clinic with the Acute Coronary Syndrome Unit. The 77-year-old patient, for whom a traditional pacemaker was not an option due to contraindications, received the innovative device. One component was implanted in the right atrium, the other in the right ventricle, and their interaction relies on Bluetooth communication.
"The devices must be precisely placed in specific locations within the heart, both electrically and hemodynamically. They must be positioned so that they can communicate with each other continuously," explains Prof. Andrzej Przybylski , head of the clinic.
The cardiologist compares the operation of the pacemaker components to a constant dialogue: "One says, 'I see the heart beating, so you don't pace, just wait.' And so they talk over Bluetooth all the time."
This solution is intended for individuals who cannot have traditional pacemakers due to previous infections, dialysis, or complications following heart surgery. The procedure is performed via a femoral vein puncture, eliminating the need for large incisions.
– "The wound is small, located in the groin at the injection site. The procedure resembles a 'keyhole' operation (...) The patient has no major restrictions other than being advised not to lift heavy objects for a while," explains Dr. Piotr Szafarz.
The next day, the patient can return to normal activity and leave the hospital.
See also:
Previously, wireless pacemakers had only been implanted in one location – the atrium or ventricle. This time, for the first time, they were able to combine both elements in a single procedure, which was a significant technical challenge.
The hospital on Lwowska Street has been performing innovative procedures for years. In 2024, its team performed the first in Poland (and second in the world) removal of intracardiac leads using vibration technology. The facility also operates a Telemetry Surveillance Laboratory, which allows patients with implanted devices to be monitored remotely.
Thanks to these achievements, Rzeszów is becoming one of the most important points on the cardiology map in Poland.
politykazdrowotna
