World’s Smallest Pacemaker Implanted in Newborn at Barcelona Hospital
Barcelona’s Sant Joan de Déu Hospital has successfully implanted the world’s smallest pacemaker in a newborn baby weighing 2.1 kilograms (4.6 pounds). The groundbreaking procedure, performed just hours after birth, addresses a severe cardiac condition detected during pregnancy.
A Critical Congenital Heart Defect
During the second trimester of pregnancy, doctors detected a serious cardiac disorder in the fetus. The condition, a complete atrioventricular block, prevents electrical impulses from passing correctly between the heart’s chambers. This results in a dangerously sluggish heart rate – known as bradycardia – and can lead to insufficient blood and oxygen reaching the body. As a consequence, the heart enlarges in an attempt to compensate for the slow rhythm.
Urgent Intervention and a Unique Challenge
The baby was born on February 2, 2026, exhibiting severe bradycardia and clinical deterioration with a risk of heart failure. A temporary pacemaker was initially implanted to stabilize the newborn. However, conventional pacemakers, measuring around six centimeters (2.4 inches), are too large for a newborn and can cause complications such as organ compression or infections.
Collaboration and Innovation
To overcome this challenge, the hospital team collaborated with Abbott to develop a pacemaker specifically adapted for infants. The resulting device, based on the AVEIR platform, measures just two centimeters (less than one inch) – the smallest pacemaker of its kind in the world. The hospital team secured urgent authorization from the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) within five hours, enabling swift intervention.
Successful Implantation and Recovery
Led by Dr. Stefano Congiu, head of the Cardiac Surgery Department and Dr. Georgia Sarquella-Brugada, head of the Cardiology Department, a team of 16 professionals from various specialties, including engineers specializing in medical devices, performed the definitive implantation. The pacemaker effectively stimulates and coordinates the heartbeat, a crucial function for such a small and previously enlarged organ, according to Dr. Sarquella-Brugada.
After 20 days of hospitalization, the baby has been discharged and is expected to lead a normal life with only periodic check-ups at the hospital.
About Sant Joan de Déu Hospital
Sant Joan de Déu Hospital Barcelona is a leading pediatric hospital known for its advancements in cardiac care and innovative medical solutions.
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