Dr. G Vivek, Consultant – Cardiology, Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road

In a first for Indian Cardiology, Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road successfully performed India’s first implantation of the second-generation Micra VR2™ Leadless Pacemaker. This represents a significant advancement in cardiac care, especially for patients with heart rhythm abnormalities. It offers advantages by eliminating leads, lowering the risk of complications, and promising a longer device lifespan than traditional pacemakers.

Micra VR2™: A Game-Changer in Pacemaker Technology

A traditional pacemaker involves a chest incision and has wires (which are called leads). These leads travel from a chest pocket through the veins into the heart. It is associated with visible scarring and complications like infections, venous blockage, and lead fractures.

The Micra VR2™ is a tiny capsule (one-tenth the size of a conventional pacemaker) that is inserted directly into the heart through the femoral vein using a catheter. This minimally invasive method ensures a quicker recovery, prevents a chest scar, and lowers risks of infections, hematomas, and lead fractures. The device offers better longevity and efficiency than the first-generation Micra pacemakers, with a battery life of approximately 40% longer (17 years) and simpler programming.

Key Advantages of the Micra Leadless Pacemaker:

· No chest incision or visible scar

· No leads, which equals reduced long-term complications

· 17-year battery life

· MRI-compatible and retrievable

· Rapid recovery and discharge

Who can benefit from the Second-gen Micra device?

Patients with rhythm disorders like sick sinus syndrome or heart block, where the heart’s natural electrical system deteriorates with age, are recommended to use the Micra VR2. The pacemaker maintains a steady heart rhythm in such situations. It also prevents fatigue, dizziness, and the risk of sudden cardiac arrest. It is especially beneficial for elderly patients with fragile health, patients prone to infections or with weak immunity, and also those with limited venous access or prior failed pacemaker implants.

At Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road, the procedure was performed on an 83-year-old senior doctor suffering from sick sinus syndrome. The patient had an episode of loss of consciousness and recurrent blurring of vision, which prompted him to seek medical advice. As his condition was confirmed, he was advised to undergo Micra VR2 device implantation. The entire procedure was completed in under an hour, and the patient was discharged within 48 hours. In a conventional pacemaker surgery, the recovery takes about 4–6 weeks with restricted movement.

Approved by the US FDA and used globally, Micra’s introduction in India is set to redefine treatment options for high-risk cardiac patients who are prone to infections, have limited venous access, or can’t undergo conventional pacemaker surgery.