Special to Iredell Free News

In a groundbreaking achievement, Dr. Ray Georgeson, a cardiologist with Piedmont HealthCare Heart and Vascular, has become the first physician in Iredell County to successfully perform pacemaker surgery using the AVEIR leadless pacemaker at Iredell Memorial Hospital.

“Being the first to offer leadless single pacemakers in Iredell County is an exciting milestone,” Georgeson said. “The AVEIR pacemaker represents a leap froward in cardiac technology, allowing us to provide our patients with a more efficient and less invasive solution for managing cardiac arrhythmias.”

What is the AVEIR Leadless Pacemaker?

A pacemaker is a small, implantable device that plays a crucial role in managing irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias. These devices are designed to monitor the heart’s rhythm and, when necessary, deliver electrical impulses to regulate the heartbeat.

Traditionally, pacemakers have been implanted with leads, but the AVEIR leadless pacemaker eliminates the need for these wires, making the procedure minimally invasive. Through mid-December, Georgeson and the Iredell Health System team have already successfully performed two surgeries utilizing this state-of-the-art technology.

AVEIR Pacemaker’s Unprecedented Design

A standout feature of the AVEIR pacemaker is its extended battery longevity, expected to last 15 to 20 years, a significant improvement over the previous standard of eight to 12 years. This advancement not only reduces the frequency of device replacements but also enhances the overall quality of life for patients.

Furthermore, the AVEIR leadless pacemaker is remarkably compact, smaller than a AAA battery. It is implanted into the right heart chamber, providing patients with a pacemaker that not only offers advanced functionality but also a more discreet and comfortable experience.

Who Qualifies for the AVEIR?

Patients qualifying for this procedure include those who require single or dual chamber pacemakers for the management of cardiac arrhythmias. Eligibility is based on a thorough assessment of each patient’s medical history and individual needs.

What to Expect During the Procedure?

Patients will undergo the procedure at Iredell Memorial Hospital’s Heart & Vascular Center. Patients can expect the procedure to last up to an hour and a half, with the added benefit of being able to return home on the same day.

LEARN MORE

Dr. Ray Georgeson practices at Piedmont HealthCare Heart and Vascular at 633 Brookdale Drive, Suite 100 in Statesville. For inquiries about this new technology, contact Piedmont HealthCare Heart & Vascular at (704)-873-7850 or visit https://piedmonthealthcare.com/location/phc-cardiology/.

Cardiologists with the Iredell Physician Network also soon plan to utilize the new technology. For information on those practices, contact Statesville Cardiovascular Clinic at 704-873-1189 or Iredell Cardiology at 704-878-4694.