SmartMobs.com informs that cardiologists at the VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam (VUmc) have successfully implanted a new SMS-enabled type of pacemaker:
The pacemaker is quite unique because it has an advanced transmitter that notifies the hospital by sms about heart rhythm failures among their patients. The sms message automatically alarms the mobile phone of the treating cardiologist and a special aid unit of the hospital. Via the internet they can monitor how serious the failure is and respond accordingly.
Experts from all over the world regard this as an important medical innovation. The finding is part of a series of Home Monitoring pacemakers and was developed by Biotronik. The description of the patent emphasizes the security and privacy warrants of the system.
The first pacemaker of this new series was successfully implanted two weeks ago by cardiologist Dr C.C. de Cock of the VU medical centre in Amsterdam. It functions properly. The implementation took place during a monthly workshop about a new therapy for heart rhythm failures. The operation was a live performance.
Additional info about Philos II pacemakers from Biotronik, that utilize BIOTRONIK Home Monitoring® Service, can be found here…
(hat tip: Dr. Enoch Choi)
NOTE: We would like to welcome Dr. Enoch Choi to the editorial board of MEDGADGET.COM.
