Implantable Medical Device Lead Connectivity Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current implantable medical devices face challenges in confirming lead connectivity and identifying lead types, especially with complex configurations, which can compromise the effectiveness of therapy delivery and sensing functionalities.
Innovation Solution
An implantable medical device system that detects lead connectivity and identifies lead types through wireless communication with a programmer, using a processor to determine connectivity and type, and relay this information for confident use and reprogramming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If lead assemblies are made smaller to minimize sizes in multi-chamber pacemakers and defibrillators, then the ability to position multiple leads within small vessels is improved, but the difficulty of marking and identifying lead type and manufacturer information increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses RFID tags to create a digital copy of lead identification information that can be wirelessly read by the IMD. This eliminates the need for physical markings on the lead while preserving all identification data, resolving the contradiction between miniaturization and information retention
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag acts as an intermediary carrier between the lead and the IMD. Instead of directly marking the lead or having the IMD physically inspect the lead, the RFID tag mediates the information transfer through wireless communication, enabling identification without physical space for markings
2Adaptability or versatility
If lead configurations are made complex with multiple electrodes to provide bi-atrial or bi-ventricular pacing capabilities, then the flexibility and accuracy of sensing and pacing vectors is improved, but the difficulty of confirming lead connectivity and electrode functionality increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-diagnosis by automatically testing connectivity between the IMD and each electrode through impedance measurements. The lead and electrodes self-verify their own functionality without requiring external manual testing, enabling the IMD to autonomously confirm proper connection and identify functional issues
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where the IMD continuously monitors electrode impedance and connectivity status. By measuring electrical properties and comparing them against expected values, the system provides real-time feedback on lead integrity and electrode functionality, automatically alerting to any connectivity issues
3Device complexity
If manual identification and connectivity verification methods are used during implantation, then the complexity of the implantation process is reduced, but the time required for implantation and post-implantation assessment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is pre-programmed with lead identification information before implantation. Connectivity testing is performed automatically during the implantation procedure rather than as a separate post-implantation step. This preliminary verification eliminates time-consuming manual checks and ensures proper lead identification and connectivity are confirmed before the procedure is completed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection methods with automated electronic RFID reading and electrical impedance measurements. Instead of physically examining lead markings and manually testing connections, the system uses wireless electromagnetic communication and electrical property measurements to rapidly verify lead identity and connectivity, significantly reducing assessment time
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable medical device (IMD) configured to detect lead connectivity as well as to identify lead type. Detecting lead connectivity provides, among other information, confirmation that the lead is connected to the IMD and that such connection has good integrity between the IMD and the electrodes of its leads. With positive affirmation regarding lead connectivity, the IMD can in turn accurately identify the lead type. Such connectivity and lead type information gives a physician enhanced confidence in using and/or reprogramming the IMD with respect to such leads.