A number of Heart Failure patients already have had some form of implanted cardiac device fitted.    Such devices run on batteries which need replaced approximately every five years or so.

Now scientists have converted energy from a beating heart to provide enough electricity to power a pacemaker.

According to a study presented at the recent American Heart Association’s (AMA) Scientific Sessions researchers have tested a device that uses piezo-electricity, which is electrical charge generated from motion.

Professor Peter Weissberg, Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation said - “If researchers can refine the technology and it proves robust in clinical trials, it would further reduce the need for battery changes."

Source:       BHF    ;      AMA Scientific