Global Health Asia-Pacific issue 5 | Page 30

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At the forefront of cardiovascular and thoracic care in Malaysia .
electrical systems with a novel ablation device called Farapulse . Unlike traditional cardiac ablation methods that use extreme temperatures — either heat or cold — to remove problematic heart tissue , the Farapulse system utilises ultra-rapid electrical pulses . This innovation not only ensures precision in targeting the specific tissue responsible for heart rhythm disruptions but also eliminates the risk of damaging nearby organs like the nerves , oesophagus , or lungs . This groundbreaking approach not only enhances patient safety but also reduces procedure times and accelerates post-procedure recovery
Inventive devices The rise of safer and better implantable heart devices has been a cornerstone of cardiovascular medicine , particular for patients with life-threatening arrhythmias . Since implanting the first implantable cardioverter-defibrillator ( ICD ) in Malaysia back in 199� , I�N has made significant leaps in pioneering devices which restore a regular heart rhythm .
In 2020 , I�N made history by being the first hospital outside the �nited States to implant the Micra A� pacemaker . Around the size of a vitamin capsule , the Micra A� is said to be one of the world�s smallest pacemakers . The device is used to treat patients with atrioventricular ( A� ) block , where electric signals between the heart�s chambers are impaired . Due to its small size , the device can be implanted through less invasive means , reducing the need for extensive surgical procedures . Having been actively involved in the device�s development since 201� , I�N has continued to expand its use of the Micra A� � in 2022 , the centre marked a regional first by implanting the device in 100 patients .
As Malaysia�s leading heart specialist centre , I�N faces the challenge of treating a substantial volume of patients with complex heart conditions � in response , the centre has leveraged novel devices to aid medical professionals in their work . One of the latest advancements introduced by the centre is the PulseCath i�AC 2L , a temporary mechanical circulatory device . This device plays a pivotal role in supporting heart failure patients during percutaneous coronary intervention ( PCI ) procedures , which are essential for treating coronary heart disease . PCI involves the use of stents to restore blood �ow , but some high-risk patients , particularly those with advanced heart failure , are not suitable candidates for standard PCI . In such cases , the Pulsecath i�AC 2L offers temporary heart support , expanding treatment options and improving patient outcomes .
Looking ahead , emerging technologies hold the potential to unlock even more exciting breakthroughs . From the use of artificial intelligence to develop personalised treatment plans , to wearable monitoring devices that can provide continuous data to medical workers , I�N is steadfast in its commitment to embracing technology to enhance its quality of care .
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