Lead extraction methods and apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus configured to control a lead extraction tool for assisting in removal of an implanted lead. The apparatus comprises at least one valve configured to control fluid flow to the lead extraction tool. When the at least one valve is open, the at least one valve is configured to allow fluid stored in the apparatus to flow thereby applying, when the apparatus is fluidly coupled to the lead extraction tool, fluid pressure to at least one component of the lead extraction tool. The apparatus further comprises at least one controller configured to control opening and / or closing of the at least one valve.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §120 and is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 009,134 entitled “LEAD EXTRACTION METHODS AND APPARATUS”, filed Oct. 1, 2013, which is a national stage application under 35 U.S.C. §371 of International Application Serial No. PCT / IB2012 / 000818, filed on Mar. 30, 2013, titled “Lead Extraction Methods and Apparatus,” which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 470,731, filed on Apr. 1, 2011, titled “Lead Extraction Methods and Apparatus,” attorney docket No. L0716.70001US00, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND[0002]A number of heart conditions and / or diseases are routinely treated using a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) that deliver electrical energy to the heart muscle to keep the patient's heart beating at a normal rhythm. Such devices are typically ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes an apparatus for removing an implanted lead. It includes a valve that controls fluid flow to the lead extraction tool, which applies pressure to the lead when connected. The apparatus is controlled by a controller that opens or closes the valve. The technical effect is an improved tool for safely and effectively removing implanted leads.

Problems solved by technology

In addition, physical damage to the lead may require lead extraction.

For example, fracturing of the lead or damage to the insulation surrounding the lead may cause the device to operate non-optimally, to be altogether non-functional and / or present a risk to the patient, and therefore may require the lead to be extracted and optionally replaced.

A lead left in the body from a previously removed device may need to be removed due to interference with a new lead and / or pacing device.

For example, an abandoned lead may occupy intravenous space preventing a new lead from being inserted, thus requiring the abandoned lead to be removed.

For example, excessive scar tissue at the tip of the lead may render the lead non-functional and / or may require the device to provide more energy than the device was designed to deliver.

Numerous other complications may arise that cause a physician to determine that lead extraction is required for the patient's comfort, safety and / or livelihood.

However, lead extraction may be complicated by tissue adhering to the outer surface of the lead.

For example, after the lead has been implanted, scar tissue may form around the lead at any number of different sites (e.g., the insertion point of the lead into the vein or at any location along the vein and / or heart wall) making it difficult for a surgeon to extract the lead without tearing the surrounding tissue.

Moreover, if more than one lead is present in the vein, the leads can become attached to one another creating a relatively complicated extraction procedure that is often problematic using conventional lead extraction devices.

Lead extraction devices that utilize the internal lumen of the lead for extraction do not address the problem of fibrous tissue attached to the external portion of the lead and may therefore be rendered ineffective, or are used with significant risk of tearing critical internal blood vessels and causing dangerous, and sometimes fatal, damage to the patient should the lead be extracted using excessive force.

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