Description: In this episode of The Lead, recorded live at HRX 2026, host Jason T. Jacobson, MD, FHRS, is joined by Michael S. Lloyd, MD, FHRS, and Igor R. Efimov, PhD, FHRS, to discuss the article "The Forgotten History of Semi-Implanted Radiofrequency and Inductively Powered Cardiac Pacing Systems," published in Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology (PACE). The panel explores the evolution of early cardiac pacing technologies, the challenges associated with externally powered systems, and how historical innovations in wireless energy transfer may inform future developments in pacemaker design, miniaturization, and alternative power sources.

Learning Objectives:

Describe the historical development of semi-implanted radiofrequency- and inductively powered cardiac pacing systems and their role in the evolution of pacemaker technology.
Compare the technical advantages and limitations of early externally powered pacing systems with fully implanted, battery-powered pacemakers.
Evaluate the potential applications of wireless energy transfer and alternative power sources in future cardiac pacing technologies.

Host: Jason T. Jacobson, MD, FHRS | Westchester Med Center-New York Med Coll

Guests:
Michael S. Lloyd, MD, FHRS | Emory University
Igor R. Efimov, PhD, FHRS | Northwestern University

Faculty Disclosures:

J. Jacobson

Honoraria/Speaking/Consulting Fee: Zoll Medical Corporation, Vektor Medical, Inc., CardioFocus, Inc., Abbott Medical, Johnson and Johnson
Stock Options-Privately Held: Atlas 5D

M. Lloyd

Honoraria/Speaking/Consulting Fee: Medtronic
Membership on Advisory Committee: Boston Scientific, ABIM

I. Efimov

Nothing to disclose

Staff Disclosure(s) (note: HRS staff are NOT in control of educational content. Disclosures are provided solely for full transparency to the learner):

S. Sailor: No relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.
M. Baldwin: No relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.