System and method for preventing sudden heart rate drop using implantable cardiac pacing device
US6636766B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 3, 2001 |
| Grant date | Oct 21, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 26, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/3682
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A rate smoothing technique is applied by the pacing device to sensed and paced heart signals so as to prevent a sharp drop in heart rate, particularly for use within patients prone to vasovagal syncope. The rate smoothing technique is applied by the pacing device during the calculation of an escape interval employed by the device in determining whether to pace the heart. The rate smoothing technique has the effect of adjusting the escape interval to ensure the heart is paced for a period of time subsequent to a sharp drop in the natural heart rate of the patient permitting the heart rate to decrease gradually rather than suddenly. The rate smoothing technique however does not interfere with a sharp increase in heart rate as may be required during sudden physical exertion. System and method examples are described herein.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.