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World’s Smallest Pacemaker: Revolutionizing Cardiac Care with the Size of a Rice Grain

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed the world’s smallest pacemaker, measuring less than a grain of rice. This innovative device is powered by light, injected via syringe, and dissolves naturally in the body post-use. It presents a safer, non-invasive solution for pediatric and adult patients requiring temporary heart pacing after surgery.

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Sources and References

Lawler, Daniel. “Breakthrough: World’s Smallest Pacemaker Is The Size of a Rice Grain.” Agence France-Presse, 3 April 2025, https://www.afp.com/articles/breakthrough-worlds-smallest-pacemaker-is-the-size-of-a-rice-grain.

Morris, Amanda. “World’s Smallest Pacemaker Is Activated by Light.” Northwestern University, 2 April 2025, https://news.northwestern.edu/articles/worlds-smallest-pacemaker-is-activated-by-light.

Wogan, Tim. “Pacemaker the Size of a Grain of Rice Could Save Children’s Lives After Surgery.” Agence France-Presse, 7 April 2025, https://www.afp.com/articles/pacemaker-the-size-of-a-grain-of-rice.

Zhang, Yamin, et al. “Millimetre-Scale Bioresorbable Optoelectronic Systems for Electrotherapy.” Nature, vol. 640, 2 April 2025, pp. 77–86, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-08726-4.

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