The Procedure

The Optimizer implant is a small device similar to a pacemaker. It is typically implanted in the right pectoral region and is connected to three standard pacemaker leads that are threaded through veins into the right side of the heart. One lead is used to sense atrial activity, and the other two are used to sense ventricular activity and deliver CCM signals. The electrodes of the ventricular leads are placed on the right ventricular septum (the wall separating the heart’s right and left sides) at least 2 cm apart. The contractility of the heart (indexed by a parameter called “dP/dtmax”) can be evaluated during the implantation procedure in order to optimize the lead position and the acute response to therapy. In contrast to a pacemaker or a defibrillator, the system is designed to modulate the strength of contraction of the heart muscle rather than the rhythm. CCM therapy is delivered at regular intervals throughout the day.

Recharging of the device is easily performed using a home-based charger system. The charger should be used on a weekly basis and charging sessions typically last about 40 – 60 minutes.