India’s First FDA-Approved Micra AV2 Pacemaker Implanted in Bangalore

By Dr. Girish B Navasundi Posted on July 11, 2025

India’s First FDA-Approved Micra AV2 Pacemaker Implanted in Bangalore

A Big Leap in Heart Care by Dr. Girish B Navasundi at Apollo Hospitals

Location: Bangalore | Hospital: Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road
By: Dr. Girish B Navasundi, Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist & Director, Cathlab

Big news from Bangalore’s heart care scene!
Dr. Girish B Navasundi has successfully implanted India’s very first Micra AV2 – the latest, tiniest, and smartest pacemaker approved by the US FDA. And he did it right here at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore.

This moment isn’t just a medical first — it’s a proud milestone for India and a life-changing advancement for patients who need heart rhythm support.

So, What Is the Micra AV2 — and Why Is It a Big Deal?

Let’s break it down.
The Micra AV2 is the world’s smallest leadless pacemaker. Think of it as a mini marvel that keeps your heart beating in rhythm — without any surgical scars, wires (leads), or bulky devices under your skin.

But that’s not all.

This next-gen device offers:

✅ 44% longer battery life (up to 16+ years!)
✅ Advanced sensors that better mimic natural heart rhythm
✅ No visible scars or bulges — it’s implanted inside your heart
✅ Minimal recovery time and quicker hospital discharge

It’s tiny but mighty — and Bangalore is now on the map as the first Indian city to offer it!

A Proud Moment for Indian Cardiology — And for Bangalore

Dr. Girish B Navasundi, a name trusted across Karnataka and India for advanced heart treatments, led this milestone.

“Being the first in India to perform a Micra AV2 implant is truly special,” says Dr. Navasundi.
“This device gives our patients smarter pacing, better comfort, and longer protection — all through a safer, less invasive approach.”

His team at Apollo’s Cathlab has made it possible to bring world-class heart technology to patients right here in Bangalore, without the need to travel abroad.

How Is Micra AV2 Different from a Traditional Pacemaker?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you understand:

Feature Traditional Pacemaker Micra AV2
Requires Chest Surgery Yes No
Has Wires/Leads Yes No
Visible Bulge Yes No
Risk of Infection Higher Minimal
Recovery Time 5–7 days 1–2 days
Battery Life ~8 years 16+ years
MRI Compatible Sometimes Yes

Pretty amazing, right?

What This Means for You — or Your Loved One

If someone you care about is living with slow heart rhythms (bradycardia) or AV block, they might need a pacemaker. Until now, this meant wires, cuts, long recovery — and sometimes complications.

But with Micra AV2, we’re flipping the script:

  • No chest surgery

  • No visible scar

  • Fewer follow-ups

  • Freedom to live a more active life

  • Peace of mind for 15+ years

And all this is available now at Apollo Hospitals Bangalore, under the expert care of Dr. Girish B Navasundi.

Who Can Get the Micra AV2?

Not everyone needs it — but if you (or someone you know) has any of the below, it’s worth talking to Dr. Navasundi:

✔️ Diagnosed with bradycardia or AV block
✔️ Had prior infections or complications with older pacemakers
✔️ Are elderly or have other health issues that make traditional surgery risky
✔️ Want a device that’s discreet and low-maintenance

Meet the Man Behind the Milestone

Dr. Girish B Navasundi is one of India’s most trusted names in heart care. With decades of experience, he’s a leader in:

  • Complex angioplasties

  • Heart rhythm disorders (Electrophysiology)

  • Pacemakers and leadless pacing

  • Structural heart interventions

  • Advanced imaging-guided heart procedures

He serves as Director of the Cathlab at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore, where he and his team bring global innovations to everyday Indian lives.

FAQs About Micra AV2

Q1: Is it really wireless?
Yes! No leads, no wires — just one tiny device implanted inside your heart via a leg vein.

Q2: Will it leave a scar?
No scar on your chest, no device bulge — it’s completely invisible from the outside.

Q3: Is the procedure painful?
It’s done under local anesthesia with sedation. Most patients feel minimal discomfort and recover quickly.

Q4: How long does it last?
The Micra AV2 can last over 16 years — almost twice as long as many traditional pacemakers.

Q5: Is it MRI-safe?
Yes, you can still undergo MRI scans under specific guidelines.

Q6: How soon can I go home after the procedure?
Most patients are discharged within 24–48 hours, depending on overall health.

Q7: Is it available only in Bangalore?
Currently, it’s available at select centers in India. Apollo Hospitals Bangalore is proud to be the first.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’ve been told you or a family member needs a pacemaker, or you want a second opinion, this is your chance to explore the best, most advanced option available.

📍 Visit Us: Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore

Call: 098869 36556

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