The procedure followed a diagnosis of complete atrioventricular block during the second trimester of pregnancy. This condition caused the fetus's heart to beat too slowly, leading doctors to move the birth forward to February 2nd to prevent heart failure. Initially, a temporary device was used to stabilize the infant.
Standard pacemakers, measuring about six centimeters, were too large for the newborn. Consequently, the hospital worked with Abbott to adapt the AVEIR platform. The final two-centimeter device was implanted after receiving emergency authorization from the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) in just five hours.
“"This case demonstrates that collaboration between doctors and engineers can make the difference between having no options and being able to save a life."
A team of 16 specialists, led by Dr. Stefano Congiu, performed the surgery. After 20 days in the hospital, the baby has been discharged and is expected to lead a normal life with regular medical check-ups.
