Communicating Leadless Pacemakers

Leadless (wireless) Cardiac Pacemakers (LCPs) were developed to overcome complications of traditional pacemakers, such as lead fracture, dislodgement, and infection. Despite their advantages, current LCPs face major limitations. This project aims to recharge LCPs using electric fields, enabling advanced functions such as inter-device synchronization without increasing device size or altering established titanium encapsulation methods used for hermetic sealing. Unlike inductive pickup coils, this approach supports conventional construction techniques. The research will investigate coatings and methods to ensure sufficient electrical isolation from electrodes on the LCP case. Specific focus areas include optimizing hermetic sealing to protect sensitive electronics, developing ceramic and insulating coatings to prevent shorting while improving energy harvesting, and refining fabrication methods for thin-walled titanium housings suitable for implantation. The project also seeks to expand bioengineering research opportunities at MUN, where the field is underrepresented among engineering students and across Newfoundland. Collaboration with the University of Auckland, where the project is a priority initiative funded by New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, will provide valuable international connections. Partnerships between researchers at both institutions will advance this technology while fostering long-term collaboration in implantable medical devices.

Faculty Supervisor:

Liam Morrissey

Student:

Partner:

University of Auckland

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

Memorial University of Newfoundland

Program: