By Dr. Sanchari Sinha Dutta, Ph.D.Reviewed by Danielle Ellis, B.Sc. What are implantable medical devices?References Implantable medical devices are introduced into the human body through surgery or other medical interventions to serve specific functions. The most common examples of implantable medical devices include artificial joints, breast implants, cochlear implants, intraocular lenses, pacemakers, other cardiac implants, and intrauterine contraceptive devices.
Common examples of implantable medical devices Cardioverter defibrillator A cardioverter defibrillator is a battery-powered medical device implanted in the heart tissue. The device is used to monitor heart rate rhythms, as well as to deliver electrical shocks to stimulate the heart muscle. In patients with recurrent and sustained ventricular tachycardia, the device is implanted to restore normal heartbeat rhythms and prevent sudden cardiac death.
Left ventricular assist device A left ventricular assist device is used to support cardiac circulation. The left ventricle is a large heart chamber that pumps blood out of the heart to circulate through the body. A left ventricular assist device is a battery-powered mechanical pumping device implanted surgically to maintain the pumping ability of the left ventricle. The device is particularly useful for end-stage heart failure patients who cannot undergo heart transplantation.
Cochlear implants Cochlear implants are electronic hearing devices comprising an external microphone, sound processor, transmitter system, and an internally implanted receiver and electrode system. The internal system uses electronic circuits to receive signals from the external system and send electrical currents to the inner ear.Intraocular lenses Intraocular lenses are implanted permanently into the eye to correct vision. These implants reduce the requirement for glasses or contact lenses.