Implantable cardiac devices for arrhythmias and related conditions are a rapidly evolving field, with a constant stream of technologies being developed. There are a number of novel devices, other than conventional pacemakers and implantable defibrillators, currently being developed that have the potential to greatly improve patient outcomes. This paper reviews the important recent technologies, the subcutaneous defibrillator, cardiac contraction modulation, the HeartPOD and CardioMEMS heart failure monitors, left atrial appendage closure devices and leadless cardiac pacing.

The features of these devices, the results to date, and their possible clinical utility are discussed.