Method for inserting a lead electrode into body tissue using a rotatable lead introducer

US7890192B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• Greatbatch Ltd. · US

Inventors

• Daniel N. Kelsch · Saint Clairsville, US
• James L. Mellor · Windom, US
• Kenneth P. Rundle · Independence, US
• Roger B. Fell · London, US
• Scott E. Jahns · Hudson, US
• Dave S. Erickson · Stillwater, US
• Vincent A. Fischer, III · Minneapolis, US
• Kent D. Anderson · Champlin, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 5, 2009
• Grant date: Feb 15, 2011
• Expiry date: Nov 4, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61N2001/0578
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A method for inserting a lead electrode into body tissue using a rotatable lead introducer is described. The introducer can include a distal element for releasably engaging a lead head controllable from a proximal control located outside of the body. An inner stem can extend between a proximal portion and a distal portion, and be pivotally and rotatably coupled to the distal lead engagement mechanism. An outer tube can be rotatably disposed over the inner stem and be flexibly coupled over the pivot to rotationally drive the distal element. A helical epicardial-myocardial lead electrode can be secured and oriented straight ahead and introduced through a port or small incision with the introducer in a straight configuration. The introducer can then be bent and rotated to screw the helical electrode into the heart.