초록 ▼

An implantable pacemaker having a unipolar/bipolar lead interchangeability includes lead impedance measuring capability for automatically measuring lead impedance, initiated by the occurrence of predetermined events, such as whenever a programming change is made, whenever capture fails to occur in r

An implantable pacemaker having a unipolar/bipolar lead interchangeability includes lead impedance measuring capability for automatically measuring lead impedance, initiated by the occurrence of predetermined events, such as whenever a programming change is made, whenever capture fails to occur in response to an applied stimulation pulse, whenever the leads are changed, and whenever a significant change of lead impedance is otherwise detected. If a proper impedance measurement is not sensed for a programmed configuration, additional impedance measurements for other possible configurations are made in an ordered sequence in order to determine if an improper lead has been implanted or if a electrode has broken. If an operable configuration is found, signified by a measurement of impedance as expected, the pacemaker continues operation in that configuration, thereby assuring that capture can continue to occur until such time as the problem which has been detected can be corrected.

대표청구항 ▼

In an implantable pacemaker capable of programmably altering an electrode configuration for delivery of stimulation pulses and for sensing intracardiac signals, a system for ensuring operation of the implantable pacemaker despite incorrect programming or broken conductors, the system comprising: at

In an implantable pacemaker capable of programmably altering an electrode configuration for delivery of stimulation pulses and for sensing intracardiac signals, a system for ensuring operation of the implantable pacemaker despite incorrect programming or broken conductors, the system comprising: at least two pairs of electrode terminals located in the pacemaker; a pair of electrodes adapted for contact with body tissue, the pair of electrodes being coupled to at least one pair of electrode terminals; detection means for detecting an operative electrode configuration by detecting an operative combination of electrodes and electrode terminals; and programming means for automatically programing the pacemaker\s electrode configuration to the operative electrode configuration detected by the detection means, such that the delivery of stimulation pulses and the sensing of intracardiac signals occurs in the operative electrode configuration.