Abstract: A hermetic feedthrough consisting of a niobium electrical lead-in wire surrounded by an alumina insulator which is carried by a niobium ferrule, the feedthrough being particularly adapted for being welded to the titanium container of an implantable medical device. The niobium and alumina parts are joined together by means of a pure gold braze, the surfaces of the alumina being first metallized with a layer of niobium, titanium or niobium/titanium and an optional overlying layer of gold.

Abstract: A preformed electrical connector for use with body implantable stimulators, such as heart pacemakers, having a signal generator and at least one electrical lead electrically and mechanically connected to each other through the preformed electrical connector. The connector carries at least one terminal to establish electrical contact between the signal generator and electric lead, passageways being provided in the connector body to accept and guide the signal generator feedthrough pin and electrical lead into contact with the terminal. In a preferred embodiment, the terminal is provided with intersecting bores such that the feedthrough pin and electrical lead form electrical contact within or by means of the terminal. The pin may be welded or press fit to the terminal and the lead may be attached to the terminal by means of a setscrew. The preformed connector may be mechanically fastened or fastened with an adhesive to the implantable stimulator.