Patent ID: 6157860
Filing Date: 2000-12-05
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
An implantable heart treatment system for maintaining proper function of the heart, said system comprising:an implantable pulse generator means for producing an anti-arrhythmia waveform;a pulse generator housing enclosing and containing said pulse generator means and having a first conductive portion, said first conductive portion comprising an electrically conductive outer surface which is electrically connected to said pulse generator means and an electrically conductive electrode removably attached to said pulse generator housing and electrically connected to said pulse generator means;an insulative region on the pulse generator housing;a second conductive portion on the insulative region, where the second conductive portion is connected to the pulse generator means;a first heart electrode implanted in contact with the heart and being electrically connected to said pulse generator;a second heart electrode implanted in contact with the heart and being electrically connected to said pulse generator; andswitching means for directing said anti-arrhythmia waveform on the one hand, between at least one of said first and second heart electrodes and said first and second conductive portions of said pulse generator housing upon a first condition of said heart, and on the other hand directing said anti-arrhythmia waveform to said first and second heart electrodes electrically connected in common against said first conductive portion of said pulse generator housing upon a second condition of the heart.