Abstract: An implantable active fixation lead system which connects a source of electrical energy, such as a pacemaker, to the cardiac tissue. The lead system includes a lead, an introducer and a guide catheter. The lead has a small diameter lead body, and an active fixation device for engaging the cardiac tissue. The lead body has an overall straight, uncoiled configuration, and an outer diameter of about 13 mils. The lead body includes a plurality of infinitesimal, bio-compatible, bio-stable electrically conductive strands which are tightly bundled together in a cable-like fashion to form a single conductor. A dielectric bio-compatible insulation coating surrounds the conductor to provide an insulation layer between the conductor and the body environment. The fixation device includes a crank portion which engages the introducer.The introducer is assembled to the lead and includes a coupler which engages the crank portion of the lead fixation device.

Abstract: An auxiliary tool for use with a primary tool employed in implanting an electrical lead in body tissue, the primary tool being designed to hold the lead during implantation so as to avoid imparting torque to the lead, such primary tool including a slotted end, a longitudinally extending groove and a longitudinally extending bore which communicates with the groove and the slotted end. The auxiliary tool, which includes a body portion moveable in the bore, a ridge portion moveable in the groove, and a terminal portion moveable in the slotted end, serves to remove the lead from the primary tool after implantation of the electrode.