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Medtronic has announced the launch of its Aurora EV-ICD system in Japan to treat ventricular arrhythmias. The company’s Japanese division has started rolling out the Aurora EV-ICD MRI device along with the Epsila EV MRI lead. Together, they make up an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) system that delivers electrotherapy to restore a normal heart rhythm.

The Aurora system provides defibrillation, anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP), and backup pacing therapies. It has a similar size, shape, and durability as traditional transvenous ICDs, but is implanted beneath the left armpit, with the Epsila defibrillation lead positioned under the breastbone. Medtronic states that this approach helps mitigate certain risks associated with transvenous ICDs, where leads are placed inside blood vessels.

Additionally, the system includes ATP, a safe and effective method for terminating ventricular tachycardia (VT). ATP restores the heart’s normal rhythm by briefly delivering pacing pulses at a faster rate than the tachycardia.

Medtronic received FDA approval for the Aurora EV-ICD MRI SureScan extravascular defibrillator in October 2023, and the company also reported positive long-term results for the system last fall.

“Medtronic has developed a wide range of innovative products to date, including leadless pacemakers. The compact Aurora EV-ICD system is one such product, and we are very pleased to be able to offer it to patients in Japan as a new option,” said Satoru Haga, VP of Cardiac Rhythm Management at Medtronic.


© Medtronic