Patent ID: 6837848
Filing Date: 2005-01-04
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. A suction tool for accessing the epicardium of the heart through an incision through the pericardium and into the pericardial space to implant an electrode of an epicardial cardiac lead within the myocardium or against the epicardium comprising: a suction tool body extending between a suction tool body proximal end and a suction tool body distal end; and an elongated suction pad extending between a suction pad proximal end and a suction pad distal end, the suction pad proximal end attached to the suction tool body distal end, the suction pad shaped to have a suction cavity adapted to be applied against tissue, the suction cavity defined by an elongated, substantially concave suction cavity wall bounded by a suction cavity rim, a plurality of suction ports extending through the suction cavity wall into the suction cavity, the suction pad distal end shaped with a leader to fit through a pericardial incision and a tissue dilator to be inserted through the pericardial incision to facilitate advancement of the suction pad into the pericardial space, the suction tool body further comprising: