Abstract: Disclosed is a device for delivering a therapeutic or diagnostic agent to an anatomic position, such as a heart. The device includes a flexible catheter having a proximal end and a distal end, a guide wire lumen that extends longitudinally through the catheter, and a delivery lumen that extends longitudinally at least partially through the catheter. The delivery lumen communicates with a side port adjacent a distal end of the catheter, through which side port a therapeutic or diagnostic agent may be delivered. The device also may include a guide wire, and the catheter may be advanced along the guide wire via the guide wire lumen. The device also may include a secondary catheter capable of sliding through the delivery lumen and capable of delivering a liquid, solid, or radiant agent to a desired anatomic location; thus, the secondary catheter may be considered a delivery catheter. The device may be used to deliver a therapeutic agent to a particular body location in a subject suffering a disease.

Abstract: A single-pass endocardial lead electrode adapted for implantation in, on or about the heart and for connection to a system for monitoring or stimulating cardiac activity includes a lead body which is adapted for implantation within a single chamber of the heart, or multiple chambers of the heart. The lead includes a first distal end electrode which has a first electrical conducting surface. The lead body also has a second electrode which has a second electrical conducting surface. The first and second electrodes are either passively or actively attached to the wall of the heart. The lead body also includes a curved portion which facilitates the positioning of the second electrode. The main lead body alternatively includes a recess into which an atrial lead body and an active fixation element attached to one end can travel from a recessed position to a position for fixation to the wall of the heart. The active fixation element can also be moved by turning the terminal pin.

Abstract: Devices and methods for creating a series of percutaneous myocardial revascularization (PMR) channels in the heart. One method includes forming a pattern of channels in the myocardium leading from healthy tissue to hibernating tissue. Suitable channel patterns include lines and arrays. One method includes anchoring a radiopaque marker to a position in the ventricle wall, then using fluoroscopy repeatedly to guide positioning of a cutting tip in the formation of multiple channels. Another method uses radiopaque material injected into each channel formed, as a marker. Yet another method utilizes an anchorable, rotatable cutting probe for channel formation about an anchor member, where the cutting probe can vary in radial distance from the anchor. Still another method utilizes a multiple wire radio frequency burning probe, for formation of multiple channels simultaneously. Still another method utilizes liquid nitrogen to cause localized tissue death.

Abstract: An implantable electrode arrangement which includes an electrode line (10, 10′) with a plurality of electrically conductive surface regions (14, 16) in the region of the distal end of the electrode line for outputting electrical signals to a heart and/or for receiving signals from a heart, which can be electrically connected by way of the electrode line (10, 10′) to a cardioelectric device such as a defibrillator or cardiac pacemaker, which device receives electrical signals and/or outputs pulses, wherein there are switching means (20, 22; 34) which are of such an arrangement and configuration that the connection between individual ones of the electrically conducting surface regions (14, 16) and the cardioelectric device can be permanently switched on or off in the region of the electrode line (10, 10′).

Abstract: A single introduction electro-catheter to be used for permanent, semipermanent or termporary cardiac stimulation through the Coronary Sinus. Said electro-catheter featuring the possibility to stimulate from one to four cardiac chambers, according to the preferred stimulation protocol, either in sequence or simultaneously, said catheter being characterized by part or all of the following features. A) A configuration such to be able to support one, two three or four electrodes, placed on separated segments whenever necessary, said electrodes being placed in contact with the targeted cardiac chambers. B) A stent structure is permanently tied to the electro-catheter, in its distal portion close to the electrode bearing portion of said lead. C) The stent structure, and the mated electro-catheter segments will be kept in their compressed form while introduced in the access vein. Such compressed form being of an acceptable diameter for trasvenous introduction.

Abstract: A system for providing medical electrical stimulation includes a pulse generator coupled to a lead having two electrodes for placement in the right atrium or for placement of one in the right atrium and one in the coronary sinus or coronary vein. In the preferred embodiment the surface area of the first electrode is smaller than that of the second electrode so that the sensed signal from the first electrode is less than that from the second. The system provides dual site pacing with essentially single site sensing without the use of extra switches, connectors, or adaptors.

Abstract: A single-pass pacing and/or shocking lead system is capable of sensing cardiac signal in the atrium and the ventricle in a “bipolar fashion” using a three-electrode structure: a first electrode in the atruim, a second electrode in the ventricle just below the tricuspid valve, and a third in the ventricle.

Abstract: A single-pass endocardial lead electrode adapted for implantation on or about the heart and for connection to a system for monitoring or stimulating cardiac activity including a lead body with a circumferential outer surface. The lead includes a first distal end electrode which has a first electrical conducting surface which is for positioning within the ventricle of the heart. The lead body also has a second electrode which has a second electrical conducting surface adapted for positioning within the atrium of the heart. Both of the first and the second electrodes are adapted for positioning and fixation to the wall. An active fixation element is used as part of the second electrode. The lead body also includes a curved portion which facilitates the positioning and fixing of the second electrode.

Abstract: A medical electrical lead and introducer system. The lead is a single pass, dual chamber lead, which features in one embodiment an atrial tine. The introducer system is particularly designed for introduction of single pass, dual chamber lead which has an atrial tine. The introducer system facilitates the introduction of a such lead into a patient's heart while safeguarding the tine from damage due to kinking during lead positioning. The lead is a single pass lead which features an atrial tine while the introducer system is particularly designed for introduction of a such lead into a patient's heart so as to safeguard the tine from damage due to kinking during lead positioning. The lead is designed so as to electrically couple both the atrium and the ventricular chambers of the heart. The lead generally features several lengths each having differing stiffness as well as a pre-formed bend. The lead also features a atrial tine having an electrode at the tip.

Abstract: An electrode arrangement (10) comprising a first electrode cable (12) which is to be inserted into the coronary sinus and which has an electrode conductor (32) and at least one electrode (38, 40) for outputting and/or receiving electrical signals in the coronary sinus. Longitudinally slidably guidable in the lumen of the first electrode cable (12) at least in a longitudinal portion-wise manner is a second electrode cable (14) which can issue from the first electrode cable through an opening (52) at the distal end thereof and which is adapted for insertion into a cardiac vein which opens into the coronary sinus.

Abstract: An endocardial lead comprising an elongate body having a first defibrillation coil electrode, a second defibrillation coil electrode and a first pacing/sensing electrode. The first defibrillation coil electrode has a first end and a second end, where the first end is at or near the distal end of the elongate body and the second end spaced longitudinally from the distal end. The first pacing/sensing electrode is spaced longitudinally along the peripheral surface from the second end of the first defibrillation coil electrode. The second defibrillation coil electrode is spaced longitudinally along the peripheral surface from the first pacing/sensing electrode to afford positioning the first defibrillation coil longitudinally adjacent an apical location of the right ventricle of a heart with the first pacing/sensing electrode within the right ventricle of the heart and the second defibrillation coil within the right atrial chamber or a major vein leading to the right atrial chamber of the heart.

Abstract: A single-electrode lead, in particular for implantable defibrillators, is provided with a tubular, flexible lead body; a ventricular tip electrode; a ventricular, in particular helical shock electrode; an atrial, in particular helical shock electrode; and electric lines guided in the lead body to the individual electrodes. For improved atrial signal detection, a separate detection electrode is allocated to the atrial shock electrode and is electrically connected thereto such that both electrodes have a joint line.

Abstract: A single-pass endocardial lead electrode adapted for implantation in, on or about the heart and for connection to a system for monitoring or stimulating cardiac activity includes a lead body which is adapted for implantation within a single chamber of the heart, or multiple chambers of the heart. The lead includes a first distal end electrode which has a first electrical conducting surface. The lead body also has a second electrode which has a second electrical conducting surface. The first and second electrodes are either passively or actively attached to the wall of the heart. The lead body also includes a curved portion which facilitates the positioning of the second electrode. The main lead body alternatively includes a recess into which an atrial lead body and an active fixation element attached to one end can travel from a recessed position to a position for fixation to the wall of the heart. The active fixation element can also be moved by turning the terminal pin.

Abstract: A cardiac pacing lead for pacing the atria and a method of its use. The lead is provided with a mechanism for maintaining an atrial pacing electrode adjacent stimulable tissue in a patient's superior vena cava and an additional electrode locatable in the right ventricle or elsewhere when the atrial electrode is so located One such mechanism for maintaing the atrial electrode's position may be a lead body displaying pre-formed laterally extending curves sized to span a patient's superior vena cava, with the atrial electrode located thereon.

Abstract: An implantable lead for an implantable active device, such as a pacemaker, has at least two electrodes, and a proximal end adapted for electrical and mechanical connection to the active device and a distal end opposite the proximal end. A ventricular electrode is carried at the distal end of the lead for sensing and/or electrical interaction with the ventricle, and an atrial electrode is carried on the lead for sensing and/or electrical interaction with the atrium, the atrial electrode being disposed between the proximal end and the ventricular electrode. The lead at its distal end has a first part with a first predetermined length, which is between 9 and 13 cm, and which exhibits a first stiffness. Adjacent to this first part is a second part, having a second predetermined length, which exceeds 15 cm, and which exhibits a second stiffness.

Abstract: A single pass lead system for defibrillating the heart is shown. Portion of the lead is relatively stiff and holds the lead in the SVC. This stiff section extends into the atrium where good contact with the electrodes on the lead are maintained by the lead stiffness. A very flexible distal portion carries defibrillation leads into the ventricle.

Abstract: A single-pass endocardial lead electrode adapted for implantation on or about the heart and for connection to a system for monitoring or stimulating cardiac activity including a lead body with a circumferential outer surface. The lead includes a first distal end electrode which has a first electrical conducting surface which is for positioning within the ventricle of the heart. The lead body also has a second electrode which has a second electrical conducting surface adapted for positioning within the atrium of the heart. Both of the first and the second electrodes are adapted for positioning and fixation to the wall. An active fixation element is used as part of the second electrode. The lead body also includes a curved portion which facilitates the positioning and fixing of the second electrode.

Abstract: A single pass endocardial lead is provided which is adapted for implantation on or about the heart and for connection to a system for monitoring or stimulating cardiac activity. The lead includes a main body which extends into two distal leg portions, each having at least two electrodes coupled therewith. The first leg is for positioning within the ventricle of the heart. The second leg is for positioning within the atrium of the heart. Both the first leg and the second leg are bipolar and are adapted for positioning and fixation to the heart wall. The first and second legs can be fixated to the heart wall using either passive or active fixation structures. A movement assembly for advancing a helix comprises an externally threaded collar which engages with an internally threaded housing or housing insert.

Abstract: A method and system for discriminating atrial and ventricular signal components from a single heart lead, and for using this information for identifying an arrhythmia condition as being atrial or ventricular in origin. The invention is effective in identifying P waves occurring in complex signal which includes relatively stronger R waves or other ventricular artifacts which mask the P waves. The contribution of the R wave signal to the complex signal is obtained by filtering, time windowing and transfer function estimation, then the R wave estimate is subtracted from the combined signal to leave the P wave. The ratio of P waves to R waves, P--P and R--R intervals, and their ratios to one another and to fixed values can be estimated, and used in a comparison to discriminate between atrial and ventricular arrhythmia, to thereby enable appropriate treatment.

Abstract: The present invention provides a pacing system with a lead having a fixation element for providing stable fixation relative to the patient's SVC, preferably providing for positioning of the atrial electrodes near the sinus node. In a first embodiment, an adjustable loop is provided for engaging the inside wall of the SVC so as to obtain fixation of the lead just above the sinus node. Other embodiments utilize tine arrangements for providing the fixation relative to the SVC.

Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, a cardiac lead is provided that includes a connector for coupling to a cardiac stimulator that has a first rotatable member, and a tubular insulating sleeve that has a first end coupled to the connector and a second end. A tip assembly is coupled to the second end. The tip assembly has a second rotatable member. A coiled wire is coupled between the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member. The coiled wire is composed of a shape-memory material and is operable to transmit torque between the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member. Where the lead is provided with a bend, the shape-memory coiled wire retains a straight set, enabling smooth rotation of a fixation corkscrew without precession of the lead tip.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cardiac pacing system with a DDD lead with pre-stressed curvilinear portions, the lead being able to adapt to heart movement and size so as to provide more stable positioning with respect to the atrium. The lead has at least three such pre-stressed curvilinear portions positioned to adapt to the patient's heart and to absorb movement due to contractions so as to maintain atrial electrodes in a stable position with respect to the atrial wall.

Abstract: A transvenous lead specifically designed for multi-chamber electrical stimulation or sensing. In a first embodiment the lead features one or more electrodes for communication with the right atrium as well as one or more electrodes for communication with either or both of the left chambers of the heart. The lead further features structures to simultaneously bring the first electrode into contact with a first chamber, such as the right atrial wall and the second electrode into contact with a particular portion of the coronary sinus wall, to electrically access the left atrium or ventricle. In the preferred embodiment the lead body has varying flex or stiffness characteristics along its length between each of the electrodes.

Abstract: A system for passively anchoring mid-lead electrodes on an endocardial catheter lead includes at least one fibrosis-anchoring opening positioned along the exterior surface of the catheter lead body proximal or distal to the mid-lead electrodes for passively securing the catheter lead against the interior wall of the heart. Within the fibrosis-anchoring openings a suitable material is provided for anchoring the catheter lead body to the heart wall by fibrosis. Preferably, the fibrosis-anchoring openings comprise at least a pair of openings positioned only partially around the exterior of the catheter lead body at locations both proximal and distal to the mid-lead electrodes, with the catheter lead body between the fibrosis-anchoring openings being preformed to bias the mid-lead electrodes against the heart wall.

Abstract: An implantable pacing lead system for pacing a patient's heart, including a delivery catheter and a lead delivered by the delivery catheter. The lead takes the form of a single non-diverging filament having a proximal end and a distal end and carries an electrode mounted to a distal portion of the lead body. An active fixation device is mounted fixedly to, and extends laterally from, the lead body proximal to and longitudinally spaced from the electrode. During advancement of the lead through the vasculature the active fixation device is located within the delivery catheter. At the point of desired location of the active fixation device, it is advanced out of the delivery catheter and engaged with heart tissue. The lead body has greater torsional rigidity proximal to the active fixation device than distal to the active fixation device.

Abstract: A cardiac pacing lead for pacing the atria and a method of its use. The lead is provided with a mechanism for maintaining an atrial pacing electrode adjacent stimulable tissue in a patient's superior vena cava and an additional electrode locatable in the right ventricle or elsewhere when the atrial electrode is so located. One such mechanism for maintaining the atrial electrode's position may be a lead body displaying pre-formed laterally extending curves sized to span a patient's superior vena cava, with the atrial electrode located thereon.

Abstract: There is provided an implantable cardiac pacing system, having multiple sensing channels for sensing spontaneous cardiac signals which arise between respective different pairs of electrodes. In a preferred embodiment, the system utilizes a single pass VDD-type lead, having at least one atrial ring electrode for sensing atrial signals, and at least a distal tip electrode positioned in the right ventricle for sensing ventricular signals. Sensing channels concurrently process signals between the atrial ring and the pacemaker can (the indifferent electrode); the ventricular tip electrode and the pacemaker can; and the between the atrial ring and the ventricular tip. One or more additional electrode pairs can also be employed. Enable signals selectively enable the channels to be used for concurrent processing of the signals.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a single pass medical electrical lead. In one embodiment, the lead feature a pair of bipolar electrodes positioned along the lead body so that they are positioned in the ventricle and atrium respectively when the lead is implanted. The lead body features a 90 degree bent reinforced section. The bend has a radius of curvature approximately 13 mm and begins approximately 90 mm from the distal end. This curved section is approximately 40 mm in length when straightened. The ventricular electrodes are positioned approximately 28 mm apart. The ventricular cathode electrode is positioned at the distal end of the lead. The atrial electrodes are positioned approximately between 5-35 mm apart, with 28 mm preferred. The atrial anode is located at a position immediately adjacent and proximal the 90 degree bent reinforced section.

Abstract: An implantable system for the defibrillation or cardioversion of the atria and the ventricles of a patient's heart comprises: a first catheter configured for positioning in the right ventricle of the heart; a second catheter configured for positioning through the coronary sinus ostium and in the coronary sinus of the heart, with the first and second catheters together carrying at least three defibrillation electrodes; a power supply; anda control circuit operatively associated with the power supply and the electrodes. The control circuit is configured for delivering an atrial defibrillation pulse through at least two of the electrodes, or a ventricular defibrillation pulse through at least two of the electrodes.

Abstract: A single-pass tripolar pacing/lead system for pacing and sensing electrical activity in the heart of a patient in one of a VDD or VDDR fashion. The lead system is capable of bipolar sensing of the atrium and the ventricle using a three electrode structure: a first electrode in the atrium, a second in the ventricle just below the tricuspid valve, and a third in the ventricle. The lead system also is capable of providing bipolar stimulation of the ventricle.

Abstract: An implantable electrode for stimulating tissue has a piezoelectric electrode for electrically and mechanically stimulating tissue and for detecting electrical and mechanical evoked response of the stimulated tissue. An implantable lead and an implantable stimulation device employing such an electrode are described including diagnostic circuitry for making a diagnosis of the heart condition using such an electrode.

Abstract: A cardiac pacing lead for pacing the atria and a method of its use. The lead is provided with a mechanism for maintaining an atrial pacing electrode adjacent stimulable tissue in a patient's superior vena cava and an additional electrode locatable in the right ventricle or elsewhere when the atrial electrode is so located. One such mechanism for maintaing the atrial electrode's position may be a lead body displaying pre-formed laterally extending curves sized to span a patient's superior vena cava, with the atrial electrode located thereon.

Abstract: A transvenous catheter for the cardioversion of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter and/or the stimulation of the heart's activity. The catheter has an electrically active section within a heart and an electrically passive section carrying electrical cables. At least two defibrillation electrodes are located in the electrically active section and coupled to the electrical cables of the catheter. Additionally, there are at least one sensing ring electrode positioned between the at least two defibrillation electrodes and coupled to the electrical cables.

Abstract: A single pass medical electrical lead featuring an atrial wall wedging mechanism which will permit the atrial electrodes to be positioned directly against the right atrial wall. In the preferred embodiment the atrial wall wedging mechanism comprises an extendible finger which may be used to wedge the lead body in the region where the inferior vena cava enters the right atrium and the right atrium empties through the tricuspid valve into the right ventricle. Through such wedging, the atrial electrodes may be caused to be positioned directly against the right atrium wall without causing excessive pressure to be communicated to the distal tip of the lead.

Abstract: A system and corresponding method for steering stimulus pulses to one or more selected cardiac sites are disclosed. An apparatus and corresponding method permit improved capture and easy adjustment of the stimulus pulse when the threshold level changes, without simply increasing stimulus power or replacing the implanted lead. Substantially concurrent pulses may be delivered across one, two or more anode electrodes and a corresponding common or cathode electrode, where the pulse amplitude, pulse duration or pulse phase characteristics of each individual component pulse are adjusted to permit the resulting composite pulse to be steered or directed towards a desired target cardiac site.

Abstract: A catheter for use with an implantable drug dispensing arrhythmia control device, includes a lumen and valve for dispensing the drug, and multiple electrodes for sensing heart activity.

Abstract: A system for passively anchoring mid-lead electrodes on an endocardial catheter lead includes at least one fibrosis-anchoring opening positioned along the exterior surface of the catheter lead body proximal or distal to the mid-lead electrodes for passively securing the catheter lead against the interior wall of the heart. Within the fibrosis-anchoring openings a suitable material is provided for anchoring the catheter lead body to the heart wall by fibrosis. Preferably, the fibrosis-anchoring openings comprise at least a pair of openings positioned only partially around the exterior of the catheter lead body at locations both proximal and distal to the mid-lead electrodes, with the catheter lead body between the fibrosis-anchoring openings being pre-formed to bias the mid-lead electrodes against the heart wall.

Abstract: A single preformed catheter configuration for a dual-chamber pacemaker system is provided. The catheter is formed of a heat-settable biocompatible material such as, for example, polyether polyurethane, and is formed in a predetermined shape to enhance and stabilize atrial electrode contact on the inner wall of the atrium, while also providing stress relief to absorb stresses occasioned by cardiac depolarization and respiration and modulation of the bulk cardiac complex. To this end, the catheter of the present invention includes a first section disposed in the superior vena cava to provide substantially stable support to the catheter, a second section disposed in the atrium and being preformed to substantially conform to the inner wall of the atrium, and a third section having a pliancy greater than that of the first two sections and being disposed distally of the second section.

Abstract: A lead assembly includes a proximal end that has a connector for electrical connection to a cardiac stimulator, such as a pacemaker, a cardioverter/defibrillator, or a sensing instrument. The lead assembly includes an elongated proximal tubular portion that extends distally from the connector. The distal end of the proximal tubular portion is provided with a branch assembly that is joined distally to two elongated distal lead branches. The distal branches are provided, respectively, with lead tips that each function as electrodes for transferring electrical signals from and/or to the myocardium. The branch assembly includes structure for enabling a surgeon to selectively manipulate the distal branches using a single stylet passed through a single lumen in the proximal tubular portion.

Abstract: A continuous sheath of open-celled porous plastic, preferably ePTFE, is used on the outside of an implantable lead, extending along the lead body and the electrodes, in such a way that the lead is isodiametric along its length, and is very strong in tension as is required for lead removal. Because the plastic is open-celled, when the pores are filled with saline, the lead can deliver defibrillation energy through the pores in the plastic. Pore size is chosen to discourage tissue ingrowth while allowing for defibrillation energy delivery through it.

Abstract: An atrial catheter for insertion into the coronary sinus carries free-floating sensing electrodes and one or more pacing electrodes in contact with the tissue of the coronary sinus.

Abstract: A catheter for facilitating intracardiac atrial defibrillation includes an elongated flexible member that has a proximal end and a distal end. The flexible member further has a plurality of lumens that extend from the proximal end to the distal end thereof. An opening is formed through the flexible member adjacent the distal end thereof. One of the lumens communicates with the opening. A balloon envelope is secured to the periphery of flexible member and surrounds the opening. Connected to one end of the lumen associated with the opening is an air inlet tube. A syringe is provided to supply air through the inlet tube, through the lumen and out the opening in order to inflate the balloon envelope. A plurality of spaced apart electrode bands are secured around the periphery of the flexible member in a predetermined pattern. A plurality of electrical leads extend through the proximal end of the flexible member and through corresponding lumens to supply electrical current to the electrode bands.

Abstract: An electrode catheter is disclosed for creating a linear lesion in heart tissue of a heart chamber in order to correct cardiac arrhythmia. The catheter is elongated in dimension such that, upon insertion of the catheter in the patient, the catheter substantially continuously contacts either the endocardial or epicardial heart tissue. The catheter includes a plurality of electrodes and the electrodes are positioned at spaced intervals along the catheter. The electrodes are then sequentially energized with a radio frequency in conjunction with a back plate attached to the patient such that the electrodes form a continuous lesion conforming in shape to the shape of the catheter on the heart tissue. This lesion, furthermore, is of sufficient depth such that the lesion interrupts electrical nodal conduction across the lesion.

Abstract: An adjustable single-pass A-V lead for cardiac pacing comprises a ventricular lead body with a ventricular electrode at its distal tip, and an atrial sheath slidably mounted over the ventricular lead body. An atrial electrode is located on a portion of the atrial sheath that is adapted to form an outwardly-extending atrial bow. A distal portion of the sheath is configured to resist sliding over the ventricular lead body so that the atrial bow is formed when a tubular, proximal portion of the sheath is advanced distally relative to the ventricular lead body. The longitudinal distance between the atrial and ventricular electrodes can be adjusted during implantation by withdrawing the sheath proximally relative to the ventricular lead body.

Abstract: A defibrillation insulating device prevents current from directly shunting through the blood pool from the right ventricular defibrillation electrode to a superior vena cava electrode and vice versa. This forces current to flow through the heart muscle, thus increasing the current density throughout the heart, to depolarize the majority of the cardiac tissue with a minimum of energy.

Abstract: A single-pass A-V lead for cardiac pacing comprises a lead body having an atrial electrode and a right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) electrode. Preformed bends in the lead body are configured such that the atrial and RVOT electrodes are biased against walls of the right atrium and the RVOT respectively. Biasing forces generated by the preformed bends help to maintain the atrial and RVOT electrodes in their respective positions following implantation. The lead advantageously permits ventricular stimulation in the RVOT, resulting in an improved sequence of ventricular activation and a corresponding increase in cardiac output. Branched and unbranched embodiments of the lead are disclosed.

Abstract: The invention discloses a catheter for use with an implantable cardioverter in which the catheter has at least two discharge electrodes positioned along the length of the catheter in such a fashion as to place each electrode in the optimal position to effect atrial and ventricular cardioversion and defibrillation.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a single pass medical electrical lead. In one embodiment, the lead features a pair of bipolar electrodes positioned along the lead body so that they are positioned in the ventricle and atrium respectively when the lead is implanted. The lead body features a 90 degree bent reinforced section. The bend has a radius of curvature approximately 13 mm and begins approximately 90 mm from the distal end. This curved section is approximately 40 mm in length when straightened. The ventricular electrodes are positioned approximately 28 mm apart. The ventricular cathode electrode is positioned at the distal end of the lead. The atrial electrodes are positioned approximately between 5-35 mm apart, with 28 mm preferred. The atrial anode is located at a position immediately adjacent and proximal the 90 degree bent reinforced section.

Abstract: A single-pass atrio-ventricular (A-V) pacing lead includes an elongated main lead body having an atrial electrode at the distal end thereof, and includes a ventricular branch which departs from the main lead body just proximal to the tip of the atrial electrode. The ventricular branch has a ventricular electrode at its distal tip. The main lead body includes a preformed "J"-shaped portion which, following proper implantation, projects the atrial electrode against a wall of the atrial appendage. The ventricular branch includes a preformed bend which curves in the opposite direction of the J-shaped portion so as to maintain the ventricular branch generally away from the wall of the atrial appendage. The lead includes a single lumen which extends through both the main lead body and the ventricular branch, allowing the lead to be implanted using a single stylet.

Abstract: An electrode apparatus, such as an intravascular or intracardiac pacemaker or defibrillation electrode with an electrode cable has a jacket of insulation enclosing a first elongated, flexible conductor, connected to a first electrode arranged on the electrode cable, and also enclosing at least a second conductor, connected to a conductive surface forming a second electrode arranged on the electrode cable at a distance from the first electrode.