Trust first in UK to offer advanced single-lead heart device

Patients at the Trust are set to benefit from a new, more advanced heart device that improves how the heart beats, protects against dangerous heart rhythms, and combines two treatments into a single lead (wire).

The Trust is the first in the UK to offer this technology, meaning patients who require a defibrillator can now receive a device that also helps the heart pump more efficiently, without the need for multiple leads.

The development builds on advances in conduction system pacing, a relatively new technique that uses the heart’s natural electrical pathways to stimulate a more coordinated and effective heartbeat. This approach enables the heart to start beating more quickly and move in a more organised way, helping to reduce the risk of complications such as heart failure.

The newly introduced lead allows this therapy to be delivered using a single wire, rather than multiple leads placed in different areas of the heart.

As well as simplifying the procedure, this innovation makes the treatment available to a wider group of patients, including those with heart failure who also require a defibrillator.

In April, clinicians at the Trust implanted the device in the first patient. At a follow-up appointment one month later, the patient reported feeling well, with an improvement in breathing.

The procedure was carried out by Dr Paul Foley, Consultant Cardiologist, who said:
“We are very pleased to be the first hospital in the UK to offer this treatment. This new technology will lead to better outcomes and a more advanced level of care for the people we look after.”

The Trust was selected to introduce this technology in recognition of its cardiology team’s leading role in international research and its track record in delivering and teaching advanced pacing techniques.

The Trust is a recognised centre of excellence for conduction system pacing, regularly hosting visiting clinical teams and supporting other hospitals to adopt the approach.