JOHOR BAHRU: Dr Ng Kim Fong, a renowned cardiologist, has successfully implanted eight Micra™ leadless pacemakers in KPJ Kluang Specialist Hospital’s invasive catheterisation laboratory, solidifying the hospital’s leadership in advanced cardiac treatments.

Dr Ng who recently joined KPJ Kluang Specialist Hospital continues to make significant advances in the field of cardiac care.

Dr Ng, is the first cardiologist in Peninsular Malaysia, to successfully implant the Micra AV2 pacemaker, showcasing his expertise and the hospital’s advanced capabilities.

According to Dr Ng, the Micra AV2 leadless pacemaker introduces groundbreaking advancements in cardiac rhythm management, including extended longevity whereby the Micra AV2 boasts an impressive median battery life of 15.6 years, ensuring that over 80% of patients will only require one device in their lifetime.

This longevity, he said is achieved without increasing the device’s size, offering unparalleled reliability in a compact design.

He further explained that advanced algorithms in the Micra AV2 reduce the need for manual programming by 50% compared to its predecessor.

He went on to say that these algorithms ensure automatic optimization of atrioventricular (AV) synchrony settings, even at higher heart rates of 80–100 bpm.

Additionally, he said, the device’s upper tracking rate has been raised to 135 bpm, making it ideal for more active patients.

On the enhanced delivery system, he said the updated delivery system includes a rounded catheter tip, which increases surface area and reduces tip pressure during implantation.

“This design minimizes complications and streamlines the procedure for a safer and more efficient experience,” he pointed out.

Dr Ng’s expertise in leadless pacemaker implantation, such as the Micra AV2, offers patients benefits like reduced infection risk, no visible scarring, and faster recovery times.

KPJ Kluang Specialist Hospital has introduced an invasive catheterisation laboratory, enhancing cardiac care in Johor, with Dr Ng leading the region in providing world-class treatments.

He said that for patients experiencing bradycardia—a condition characterized by an abnormally slow heart rate—the Micra AV2 is a life-changing solution, combining durability, efficiency, and innovative technology.

As the first in Peninsular Malaysia to implant the Micra AV2, Dr Ng is not only advancing the standard of care but also inspiring confidence in the future of cardiac health at KPJ Kluang Specialist Hospital.

He also stated that the Medtronic Micra AV2 pacemaker has been approved by the FDA in May 2023 and is widely used in the U.S. healthcare system.

“It has also been approved in the European Union, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan for its innovative and minimally invasive features,” he claimed.

On why do you consider this pacemaker the best? he responded, “The Micra AV2 stands out as the best option for bradycardia management in Malaysia due to its extended Longevity.

He said with a median lifespan of 15.6 years, it far outlasts traditional pacemakers, reducing repeat surgeries—a significant advantage for Malaysian patients, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare facilities may be limited.

On Smart Algorithms, he said the device reduces manual programming needs by 50%, ensuring clinicians can optimize AV synchrony settings efficiently. This feature is especially valuable for hospitals in Malaysia with high patient volumes and limited staffing.

Not mincing his words, Dr Ng said as Malaysia embraces more advanced healthcare, the leadless design, which eliminates the risk of complications like lead dislodgement or infection (common in 12–15% of traditional pacemaker cases), is a crucial factor for both patients and providers.

When asked about the response from patients, he said the Micra AV2 is a popular choice for Malaysian patients due to its reduced visibility, low complication rates, and faster recovery, enhancing quality of life and eliminating fear of repeated procedures.

Elaborating further, he said KPJ Kluang is the first hospital in Malaysia to implant the Micra AV2.

However, he also said other hospitals like IJN, Cardiac Vascular Sentral Kuala Lumpur(CVSKL), Pusat Jantung Serdang, Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) used Micra AV2 as well.

On whether he considers offering the services to other hospitals, he said, Malaysia’s growing demand for minimally invasive medical solutions aligns with the Micra AV2’s potential expansion into private and public hospitals, enhancing healthcare outcomes and access to advanced technologies.

He made it clear that the Micra AV2 is a promising technology for Malaysian hospitals, aiming to modernize healthcare, reduce readmissions, minimize complications, and enhance patient satisfaction.

On how long does an operation/procedure normally take? he said the implantation of the Micra AV2 typically takes 30–60 minutes, far shorter than traditional pacemaker surgeries that can take 90–120 minutes.

“The minimally invasive nature of the procedure, performed via a catheter through the femoral vein, means shorter hospital stays—patients are often discharged the same day or within 24 hours,” he added.

This efficiency is particularly beneficial for Malaysia’s healthcare system, where patient turnover and bed space are critical factors.

Dr Ng, a renowned Malaysian cardiologist and educator, holds a Doctor of Internal Medicine from UKM and an MBBS from Melaka Manipal Medical College. He also has an FRCP from the Royal College of Physicians London and Edinburgh.

Dr Ng, with extensive experience in cardiology and EP, is currently a Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist at KPJ Kluang, Johor.

He is dedicated to community welfare, participating in COVID-19 relief efforts, health screenings, and medical education programs, and has been invited to speak at medical events both locally and internationally.