Abstract: A programmer system for implantable devices including a programmer and a telemetry wand joined by a telemetry cable or via wireless. The telemetry wand includes at least partial display and control functionality for the system. The telemetry wand and telemetry cable are encapsulated to facilitate ready sterilization of the same and may be removably connected to the programmer. The system enables a clinician to remain within a sterile field, such as during an implantation procedure, and employ the programmer system while maintaining the sterile field without requiring that the entire programmer system be sterilized.

Abstract: A system and method for ambulatory monitoring and programming of an implantable medical device are provided. The system enables ambulatory communication between a modified programmer/analyzer and an implantable medical device having telemetric communication capability. This is accomplished through the use of an ambulatory interface unit which may be conveniently attached to the patient's body using a belt or harness. The ambulatory interface unit wirelessly communicates with both the programmer/analyzer and the implantable medical device thereby providing for improved patient mobility. The ambulatory interface unit may include an integral telemetry head or may be connected to the telemetry head by a communication cable.