The world's longest lasting VVI pacemaker device for over 40 years

IntroductionImplantable permanent pacemaker function is supported by their energy sources for a mean period of 8.8-12.4 years. We previously published this case of a patient with a normally functioning VVI pacemaker, 31 years after implantation.Methods and ResultsIn this report, we state that the device is still functioning normally 40 years after implantation. The most recent device interrogation revealed pacing threshold of 0.9 V/0.5 ms. Holter monitoring for 24 hours recorded a total of 98.707 beats with 97.78% paced beats, without any indication of pacemaker malfunction and with stable heart rate at 70-71 bpm.ConclusionMost patients with implantable devices have the appropriate follow-up and settings of low energy consumption. Manufacturing companies should focus on prolonging device longevity, to produce future devices with higher energy capacity.