Abstract: A probe for electrocardial stimulation includes a catheter-like conduit for insertion into a patient's esophagus. The conduit has openings which are spaced apart at two longitudinal locations which are closely adjacent to the patient's heart when the probe is positioned in the esophagus. The openings pick up heart sounds and transmit them to the interior of the conduit for communication to the proximal end of the probe, where they can be monitored by attending personnel. Two electrodes are spaced apart longitudinally between and in fixed relation to the openings, so as to position the electrodes accurately relative to the heart based upon heart sounds transmitted through the openings. Other functions, such as a temperature sensor or stomach feeding or pumping capability may also be provided inside the conduit.

Abstract: A mechanically expandable esophageal catheter has an elongated flexible body which carries at a distal end thereof one or more electrically conducting members. The conducting members are moveable laterally with respect to the body portion of the catheter by means of a mechanical structure contained therein. The degree and extent of mechanical movement can be controlled by a stylet from a proximal end of the catheter.

Abstract: A single use disposable esophageal electrode structure is formed with a planar sheet body member. The body member carries a plurality of spaced-apart conductive electrode members. A layer of adhesive on the body member can be used to affix it to an esophageal probe. A plurality of conducting members is coupled to the body member. Each of the conducting members is in turn coupled to a respective one of the electrodes. A free end of the conducting members carries an electrical connector for connection to other electrical units.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically detecting a posterior ischemia includes a multi-element esophageal electrode coupled to an artifact suppressing circuit and a cardiac stimulator. Output from the artifact suppressing circuit, the detected QRS wave, is processed in analog and digital filters. The processed signal is analyzed to automatically determine the presence or absence of the posterior ischemia.

Abstract: An integrally formed, molded, esophageal electrode provides for positive locking of spaced-apart conducting members to the body section. The electrode includes a molded body section with a centrally formed shoulder. The shoulder provides for spacing between the two cylindrical conducting members carried on the body of the electrode. Molded hemispherical end members provide positive locking of the conductive members to the body portion.