Abstract: A DC-to-DC converter (120) is suitable for use in an implantable medical device (5) and includes N capacitors (160, 170) and a controller (140). N is a whole number greater than one. The controller (140) is coupled to each of the N capacitors (160,170) and to an output voltage terminal (142) and has N+1 phases. During a first phase of the N+1 phases the controller (140) couples selected ones of the N capacitors (160, 170) to the output voltage terminal (142). During successive N phases of the N+1 phases the controller (140) couples other selected ones of the N capacitors (160, 170) selectively between an input voltage terminal, a power supply voltage terminal, and the output voltage terminal (142). Voltages across each capacitor of the N capacitors (160, 170) and at the output voltage terminal (142) assume respective uniquely determined values during all of the N+1 phases.

Abstract: Medical device data is transferred using a universal adaptor between an implanted medical device and hospital monitoring systems. The universal adaptor is an interface compatible with various built-in hospital monitoring network comprised of equipment from a variety of manufacturers. The universal adaptor includes a telemetry circuitry, a calibration system for atmospheric pressure and an analog interface. The calibration system relates to barometric correction and includes an external pressure reference system.

Abstract: Medical device data is transferred using a universal adaptor between an implanted medical device and hospital monitoring systems. The universal adaptor is an interface compatible with various built-in hospital monitoring network comprised of equipment from a variety of manufacturers. The universal adaptor includes a telemetry circuitry, a calibration system for atmospheric pressure and an analog interface. The calibration system relates to barometric correction and includes an external pressure reference system.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for coupling components of an implantable medical device that are contained within separate sterile packages together and testing operation thereof prior to chronic implantation are disclosed. In particular, testing of the integrity of the lead conductors and other electrical components coupled therewith and the testing and calibration of an implantable sensor, e.g., an implantable pressure sensor, coupled to a programmable, implantable hemodynamic monitor (IHM) or implantable pulse generator (IPG) while in respective sterile packages are disclosed. The lead and IPG/IHM sterile packages are provided with package connectors that couple the terminals of the IPG/IHM and lead to external package connector arrays. The package connector arrays are coupled together, and a programmer is employed to downlink telemetered commands to the IPG or IHM to test the sensor and/or lead conductors and uplink via telemetery the results to the programmer for display.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for obtaining pressure data using a body implantable pressure sensor includes a measurement capacitor which is responsive to pressure changes of a body fluid. Non-constant, multiple current source charging of the measurement capacitor provides for a significant increase in sensitivity to conditions of pressure of a body fluid. Pressure data is obtained by charging the measurement capacitor at a first charge rate during a first charge period of an integration cycle and, during a second charge period of the integration cycle, charging the measurement capacitor at a second charge rate. The first charge rate is preferably greater than the second charge rate. The duration of the first and second charge periods may be varied. A signal indicative of a pressure change of a body fluid imparted to the measurement capacitor is produced by the pressure sensor. The signal may be a signal indicative of a change in a time of integration.

Abstract: An implantable dual transducer apparatus for use with an implantable medical device and control method are disclosed. The dual transducer assembly includes two physiologic sensors coupled to the medical device via a pair of lead conductors. Switching circuitry is controlled by the medical device to selectively activate and deactivate the two physiologic sensors by application of a supply voltage of an appropriate polarity. Each sensor of the dual transducer assembly is connected to the pair of lead conductors through a respective power switch. In response to the polarity of the supply voltage applied to the lead conductors, the power switches activate or deactivate their respective sensor in an alternating manner. Selective activation of one of the sensor while concurrently deactivating the other sensor of the dual transducer assembly provides for reduced power consumption and reliable communication of sensor data and other information transmitted over the pair of lead conductors.

Abstract: An implantable sensor assembly for use with an implantable medical device are disclosed. The sensor assembly preferably includes two or more physiologic sensors coupled to the medical device via a pair of lead conductors, or alternatively an oxygen sensor having certain features. The oxygen sensor permits more accurate and reliable measurement of oxygen saturation in blood masses flowing within the human body.

Abstract: An implantable sensor assembly for use with an implantable medical device are disclosed. The sensor assembly preferably includes two or more physiologic sensors coupled to the medical device via a pair of lead conductors, or alternatively an oxygen sensor having certain features. The oxygen sensor permits more accurate and reliable measurement of oxygen saturation in blood masses flowing within the human body.