In Vienna, a new type of pacemaker is being installed for the first time at the Floridsdorf Clinic. For patients, this means fewer complications and limitations with a significantly better quality of life. A milestone in medicine.
Every year, around 600 pacemaker operations are performed in the hospitals of the Vienna Health Association, many of them routine. With 280 procedures, the Floridsdorf Clinic is only slightly behind the much larger AKH. But the little sister from the 21st district is setting the tone for new surgical methods in this field. In concrete terms, this concerns the cardiovascular surgery department of the Floridsdorf Clinic. Here, surgeon Thomas Aschacher was one of the first in Austria to use a new type of pacemaker.
Aschacher: “The new pacemaker contains all functions in a small capsule. Thanks to its small size and a special screw mechanism, it can be positioned more precisely. The blood vessels and the heart with its heart valves are not permanently loaded by an electrode.” Department head Martin Grabenwöger: “We are very proud that the Floridsdorf clinic is one of the first in Austria where this latest generation standard is implanted.”
“Ink cartridge” full of the latest technology
The advantages are numerous: the operation alone is less invasive than before. Patients can sometimes leave the hospital the next day. Anna Schuh (far right in the photo), who only received one of the new pacemakers last Tuesday, also confirms this: “I often felt tired. I feel better now. I have to take it easy for a few more days before I can work in the garden again.”
Battery lasts considerably longer than before
But the new pacemaker can do even more. Despite its miniature size, it has more functions and the service life of the device itself is significantly longer. Aschacher: “The battery lasts up to twenty years instead of seven to ten years.” The pacemaker also detects physical activity with sensors and adapts accordingly. It is also easier to remove or replace – an advantage for young patients.
Small is expensive
But the new technology comes with a hefty price tag. While previous models cost up to 1,900 euros, the small copy costs 9,200 euros. But the patients don’t have to pay the bill. Because the technology has proven itself, the healthcare association will make it available to every suitable patient. The costs are covered by the cash register.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
