Segmented Cardiac Lead Conductors for Isolation and Flexibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current implantable cardiac electrotherapy leads face issues with electrical isolation between cable conductors and stiffness, which can render the cardiac therapy device inoperative and limit flexibility, respectively.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a plurality of cable conductors within an insulating jacket, where a crimp connector is connected to a cable conductor at an intermediate location, and the number of conductors varies along the lead, with the distal portion of at least one cable conductor being interrupted and removed to enhance electrical isolation and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cable conductors are continuously extended to the distal end of the lead, then electrical connectivity is maintained, but electrical isolation between conductors deteriorates and risk of short circuits increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable conductors are segmented into multiple sections along the lead length. Some conductors are interrupted at intermediate locations rather than extending continuously to the distal end, creating discrete conductor segments that are electrically isolated from each other, thereby preventing unintended electrical coupling and short circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
Different conductor configurations are applied at different locations along the lead. The proximal portion contains a greater number of cable conductors for comprehensive electrical connectivity, while the distal portion has fewer or interrupted conductors to enhance electrical isolation and reduce short circuit risk in regions where full connectivity is not required.
2Reliability
If the number of cable conductors is increased throughout the lead, then electrical connectivity is improved, but lead flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lead employs a variable conductor distribution where the proximal portion contains more cable conductors to ensure robust electrical connectivity for pacing and sensing functions, while the distal portion reduces the number of conductors to minimize stiffness and enhance flexibility for navigation through vascular structures and positioning at the heart.
Solution Approach 2:
The lead is divided into functional sections with different conductor densities. By segmenting the conductor layout, the design achieves high connectivity where needed (proximal) while maintaining flexibility where required (distal), allowing the lead to adapt to the complex implantation geometry without compromising electrical performance.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of manufacturing implantable electrotherapy leads are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the lead is manufactured by receiving a length of lead stock, forming an opening in a jacket at an intermediate location, interrupting a selected cable conductor, connecting a crimp connector to a proximal portion of the interrupted conductor at the opening, connecting a conductive element to the crimp connector, and removing at least a segment of a distal portion of the interrupted conductor from a lead body.