Lead with inflatable fixation mechanism

US7765015B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Eric T. Johnson · Temecula, US
• Brian Soltis · Windom, US
• Bruce A. Tockman · Scandia, US
• Peter D'Aquanni · Murrieta, US
• Kent C. B. Stalker · San Marcos, US
• Gayla A. Smith · Menifee, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 12, 2007
• Grant date: Jul 27, 2010
• Expiry date: Jan 17, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61N2001/0585
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A medical electrical lead configured for use in stimulating the left side of the heart (i.e., the left ventricle). In one embodiment, the lead includes an elongate lead body including an inner surface. An inflatable member is disposed on the outer surface of the body between its proximal and distal ends, the inflatable member being adapted when inflated to impart a radial force on and frictionally engage a surface of the coronary sinus or coronary vein for fixation of the distal end of the lead therein. The lead further includes a conductive member extending from the proximal end toward the distal end, and an inner insulating layer positioned between the conductive member and the inner surface of the body. Separation between the inner insulating layer and the inner surface of the body defines an inflation lumen in fluid communication with the inflatable member.