Bangkok: Cardiologists at Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital have pioneered a new technique for implanting right atrium pacemakers, aimed at enhancing heart function and reducing arrhythmias and pulmonary edema.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Natthachayathip Kittichamroen, a cardiologist specializing in cardiac electrophysiology at Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, announced the adoption of this advanced method. The technique involves implanting a pacemaker at the Bachmann bundle, a new location where the right and left atria connect, rather than the traditional right atrium's appendage. This approach, rare in Thai hospitals, positions Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital as the first BMA hospital to utilize it. The technique aims to improve synchronized contraction of the right and left atria, reducing electrical signal delays and thereby decreasing the likelihood of arrhythmias. By reducing the incidence of atrial fibrillation and pulmonary edema, patients can experience improved quality of life and safety. To date, the procedure has been successfully performed on five patients.
Dr. Natthachaya Thip explained that the new method allows the heart to beat more normally by ensuring rapid transmission of electrical signals between the atria. Traditionally, the electrical signal conduction catheter was inserted at the right atrium appendage, which could delay signal transmission to the left atrium, leading to types of atrial arrhythmias and pulmonary edema. The new technique places electrical conductors at the Bachmann bundle, facilitating quicker signal transmission and synchronized contraction of both atria, thus enhancing heart function.
Patients benefiting from this technique typically suffer from atrium dysfunction, arrhythmias, bradycardia, or sick sinus syndrome (SSS). Symptoms include palpitations, lightheadedness, fainting, and heart failure. Dr. Natthachaya confirmed the safety of the new pacemaker implantation method, noting a low chance of dislodgment or repositioning, with no reported problems so far. This technique follows Japan's longstanding practice.
Dr. Natthachaya also highlighted symptoms indicating potential heart disease, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, or fainting, and urged individuals experiencing these to seek immediate medical attention. She dispelled myths about heart disease, emphasizing its increasing prevalence among younger people and cautioning against a lifestyle of intense exercise and unrestricted eating.
Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital offers comprehensive cardiac care, featuring a Cardiac Center, a Cardiac Function Testing Room, and a Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at the 72nd Anniversary Queen Sirikit Building, open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. A specialized cardiovascular clinic operates in the 20th Anniversary Memorial Building, open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with after-hours services available at the Premium Clinic. The hospital also runs a specialized arrhythmias clinic and a Cardiac Pacemaker Clinic. For more information, interested parties can contact the hospital at 02-289-7000.