
Abbott India Expands Portfolio with Innovative Heart Devices

Abbott India has recently expanded its cardiovascular product portfolio with the introduction of the AVEIR™ VR Leadless Pacemaker System, designed to treat patients with bradycardia, a condition characterized by slow heart rhythms. This innovative device has received approval from both the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in India and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
AVEIR™ VR Leadless Pacemaker:
- Leadless Design: Unlike traditional pacemakers that require chest incisions and lead wires, the AVEIR™ VR is implanted directly into the heart’s right ventricle via a minimally invasive catheter-based procedure, eliminating the need for leads and reducing associated complications.
- Mapping Capability: The device features a unique mapping capability that allows physicians to measure electrical signals within the heart to determine optimal placement before final implantation, enhancing procedural success rates.
- Extended Battery Life: The AVEIR™ VR offers a longer projected battery life compared to other commercially available leadless pacemakers, with studies indicating that nearly half of the patients may experience battery longevity exceeding 20 years.
- Retrievability: It is specifically designed to be retrievable, allowing for removal or replacement if therapy needs evolve, providing flexibility in patient management.
Clinical Significance:
The introduction of the AVEIR™ VR Leadless Pacemaker in India represents a significant advancement in cardiac care, offering a less invasive option for patients requiring pacemaker implantation. By eliminating leads and chest incisions, the device reduces the risk of complications such as infections and lead displacement, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Expert Insights:
Dr. Balbir Singh, Chairman of Cardiology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, emphasized that leadless pacemakers address known complications associated with traditional pacemakers, offering a powerful treatment option for individuals with cardiac arrhythmias.
Abbott’s Commitment to Cardiac Care in India:
The launch of the AVEIR™ VR Leadless Pacemaker aligns with Abbott’s ongoing efforts to enhance its heart health portfolio in India. In recent years, the company has introduced several advanced cardiac devices, including:
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) and Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Defibrillator (CRT-D): Launched in October 2020, these devices offer advanced heart rhythm management capabilities with features like smartphone connectivity and MRI compatibility.
- Clip Delivery System for Mitral Valve Repair: Introduced in November 2020, this minimally invasive device treats mitral regurgitation without the need for open-heart surgery, providing a life-saving option for patients with leaky mitral valves.
Through these innovations, Abbott continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing cutting-edge cardiac care solutions in India, addressing the evolving needs of patients and healthcare providers.