Washington, Nov 21 (IANS): A new self-contained, leadless cardiac pacemaker is the safe and reliable alternative to conventional pacemakers, says a new research.

Conventional pacemakers consist of a battery-powered pulse generator and insulated wires called "leads" that run through the blood vessels to connect the generator to the heart.

The new pacemaker reduces previous complications associated with lead placement and performance, and the pulse generator placed under the skin that have occurred with conventional pacemaker systems.

In the first trial of the leadless pacemaker, doctors implanted the device in eight patients, whose average age was 82.

Researchers measured the device's performance at implant, after the patient was discharged and during three-, six- and 12-month follow-up sessions.

The study, which began in December 2012, will continue until researchers have performance and safety results at 18 months.

Fleur Tjong, research fellow in cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, in Holland presented the findings at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2014.