Sensor guided epicardial lead
US7515969B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 31, 2004 |
| Grant date | Apr 7, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 13, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/0587
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Implantable cardiac monitoring and stimulation methods and devices with epicardial leads having sensor feedback. A fixed or extendable/retractable sensor may be displaceable within the lead's lumen and configured to sense the presence of an anatomical feature or physiological parameter of cardiac tissue in proximity with the lead body's distal end. The sensor may include an ultrasonic sensing element, a perfusion sensor, a photoplethysmographic sensor, or a blood oximetry sensor. Methods of determining suitability for implanting a lead involve the steps of accessing an epicardial surface of the heart, and moving the cardiac lead to an implant site at the epicardial surface. A transmitted signal is directed at the implant site. A reflected signal is received, indicative of the presence of a blood vessel at the implant site. A determination may be made to determine whether the implant site is suitable or unsuitable based on the reflected signal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.