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The device differs from past implantable defibrillators because it does not have leads in or on the heart. Doctors say it brings hope to those at risk for sudden cardiac arrest, a condition caused by an electrical problem that causes the heart to stop beating. “This defibrillator is like an emergency room in your chest that’s watching every single beat,” says Dr. Raul Weiss, the electrophysiologist in Ohio State’s division of cardiovascular medicine who recently implanted the device in a 38-year-old central Ohio man, the first in the state to receive it. “If it senses a rapid heartbeat that can be life threatening it will deliver a shock and put the heart back in synchrony.” Sudden cardiac arrest differs from a heart attack in that an electrical malfunction, rather than a blocked vessel, interrupts blood flow to the body or the brain. Even though they may suffer permanent heart damage, most people survive a first heart attack. Implantable defibrillators are proven to be effective in treating dangerous heart rhythms that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. Currently only five percent of sudden cardiac arrest victims survive, because by the time help arrives, it’s often too late. “Statistics show that the majority of those suffering from sudden cardiac arrest don’t survive, so preventing it is very important,” says Dr. Weiss. This version of the defibrillator is very different from past models. Others have wires or leads sticking directly into the heart, and this new defibrillator monitors and treats the heart without ever touching it. By implanting this device under the skin, the risk of heart complications or infections is reduced. The device is less likely to get contaminated, and because there is no risk of the wires breaking, patients don’t have to watch their physical activity as closely. Doctors also say the devices are programmable and can deliver different degrees of shock to different patients. Lawrence Rice, 38, of Canal Winchester, Ohio, volunteered to be one of the first in the country to have the new, high-tech defibrillator implanted in his chest after finding out he suffered from sudden cardiac death syndrome. He and his family were tested after they lost four relatives under the age of 40 to heart problems. “Since I’m what they call asymptomatic, I don’t really have too many symptoms. My first bad incident could be my last,” says Rice.” OSU Medical Center is participating in a multi-center study approved by the Food and Drug Administration under an investigational device exemption. Approximately 330 patients will be enrolled worldwide. The device was developed by Cameron Health, Inc., San Clemente, CA. Subscribe to our FREE Ezine and receive current Health News, be eligible for discounted products/services and coupons related to your Health. We publish 24/7. HealthNewsDigest.com For advertising or promotion, email: tvmike13@healthnewsdigest.com Top of Page 
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