The CardioMEMS system comprises an implanted sensor and a reader. Patients lie on the reader to take pulmonary artery pressure readings and send the results to their care teams. Because rising pressures signal worsening heart failure, the results provide early warnings that can prompt patients to act, slowing disease progression and thereby avoiding hospitalization.

Abbott’s previous reader was too large to fit in a carry-on suitcase when flying, forcing patients to check a bag when traveling with the device by air. The company designed the smaller Hero to fit in a carry-on suitcase. Abbott said the smaller size will make the device easy to use day to day.