Scarcity of devices for kids

At a young age Asher Thomas, with mother Robyn, has gone through many medical procedures relating to a heart defect at birth. Because there are not child-sized pacemakers, Asher has a bulge on his stomach where an adult unit resides. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/Minneapolis Star Tribune/MCT)

Medical devices are rarely developed with children in mind. Doctors must routinely alter devices to fit into kids’ bodies or wait until they are older to provide treatment.

THERE is no such thing as a baby pacemaker. Or a defibrillator for kids.