Enhanced method and apparatus to identify and connect a small diameter lead with a low profile lead connector
US6968235B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 30, 2002 |
| Grant date | Nov 22, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 14, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N2001/0585
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention provides a practical, multi-polar, in-line connector system for use in connecting implantable medical devices (IMD) and associated non-standard, low profile medical electrical leads. In addition, the present invention provides a system that uses tool less, frictional, sealed, compressive electrical connections for most or all of the electrical interconnections between an IMD and a low profile lead. A protective sleeve seals the lead connector to the non-standard port to prevent intrusion of body fluids therein. In addition, optional microchip-based circuitry coupled to the sleeve enables wireless communication and remote programming for diverse IMDs. Memory associated with the circuitry can store, update and reprogram a wide variety of information relevant to the IMD, the patient, and the attending physician, among others. For example, the microchip may be used to identify the lead type and characteristics, as well as other useful data.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.