Patent ID: 6038474
Filing Date: 2000-03-14
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
A method of reducing the affects of intrinsic detection latency in a cardiac rhythm management device, the cardiac rhythm management device being of the type having means for sensing cardiac electrogram signals, a programmable controller coupled to receive the sensed electrogram signals, and stimulation means controlled by the controller for applying cardiac stimulation pulses to a patient's heart in response to control signals from the controller on a beat-to-beat basis, said method comprising the steps of:(a) setting a first sensing threshold level;(b) sensing cardiac electrogram signals;(c) within a first preset time prior to transmitting a stimulation pulse, analyzing the electrogram signals to determine if an amplitude of a portion of the electrogram signals exceeds the first sensing threshold level;(d) if the amplitude exceeds the first sensing threshold level, then delay stimulating for a second preset time;(e) determining whether an intrinsic event occurs during the second preset time; and(f) if no intrinsic event occurs during the second preset time, delivering a backup stimulus having a predetermined output and assume capture of the backup stimulus.