Kearney Regional Medical Center Implants First Dual Chamber Leadless Pacemaker

Earlier this week, Dr. Brian Kim, Electrophysiologist at Platte Valley Medical Clinic and Kearney Regional Medical Center, and his team successfully implanted the first FDA-Approved Dual Chamber Leadless Pacemaker in the Kearney area.

This type of procedure was used to treat a patient with symptomatic slow heart rate.

Traditionally, a conventional pacemaker is used to treat this type of condition and includes a surgically-implanted pulse generator. This device has wires called “leads” on it, which connect it to the heart. Although effective, the leads must be tightly secured by small screws. Over time, scar tissue develops over the leads, making them hard to remove and subject to possible long-term negative effects.

A dual-chamber leadless pacemaker system consists of two devices implanted through a vein in the groin, one in the right atrium of the heart, and one in the right ventricle, and makes leadless pacemaker therapy a treatment option for a wider range of indications.

The patient that received the leadless pacemaker “did great,” said Dr. Kim. “He was discharged home the same day after six hours of bedrest. He experienced no downtime, could drive, and even go back to work or play contact sports the next day.”

In contrast, patients who undergo a traditional pacemaker insertion will have a limited mobility and will require an arm sling for two weeks, and no exercise or heavy work for four weeks.

Dr. Kim began practicing at KRMC in June and was the first physician in the Western United States to implant the Dual Chamber Leadless Pacemaker while previous practicing in a hospital in California.

Dr. Kim is accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, please call 308-865-2263.