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Method and device for implantable cardiac stimulus device lead impedance measurement

  • US 20080077189A1
  • Filed: 09/22/2006
  • Published: 03/27/2008
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/22/2006
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method of testing lead impedance in an implantable cardiac stimulation device having at least a first electrode disposed on a lead and a second electrode, a power capacitor for storing stimulation energy, charging circuitry for charging the power capacitor, and control circuitry for controlling device operation, device operation including a stimulus operation including a step of charging the power capacitor to a stimulus voltage and discharging the power capacitor, the method comprising:

  • providing a testing resistor placed such that, when in a testing configuration, a testing current applied between the first and second electrodes passes through the testing resistor;

    charging the power capacitor to a testing voltage, the testing voltage being less than the stimulus voltage;

    applying a current from the power capacitor through the first and second electrodes such that at least some current passing between the first and second electrodes also passes through the testing resistor;

    observing the voltage across the testing resistor during the discharging step; and

    determining whether the lead impedance falls within an acceptable range using the observed voltage across the testing resistor.

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