Abbott Updates Implantable Cardiac Devices Firmware, Security

Abbott Laboratories announced in May 2017 new software updates for its line of implantable pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) devices. These updates aim to enhance patient safety and device performance.

A key update introduces a Battery Performance Alert for ICDs. This feature provides physicians with an earlier warning of potential premature battery depletion. It is designed to assist in identifying devices with a low risk of premature battery depletion due to short circuits, a condition previously identified in certain devices manufactured between January 2010 and May 2015.

Abbott has also released a firmware update for pacemakers that adds enhanced security protections. These measures are intended to reduce the risk of unauthorized access to patients' pacemakers. The update includes data encryption, operating system patches, and the ability to disable network connectivity features. All pacemakers manufactured from August 28, 2017, onwards will have this update pre-loaded.

The company has collaborated with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on these updates. While treated as a field action, Abbott states that the devices continue to function as intended and replacement of implanted pacemakers is not recommended.

These updates are part of Abbott's ongoing commitment to improving patient care through its medical device technologies. The company has previously issued similar updates to ensure the functionality and security of its cardiac devices.