Patent ID: 6819959
Filing Date: 2004-11-16
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
An implantable endocardial lead having a longitudinal axis and extending between proximal and distal ends for use with a cardiac stimulation device, the lead comprising:an electrical conductor within the lead extending between proximal and distal ends; an active fixation electrode comprising an electrically active helix coaxial with the endocardial lead, coupled to the distal end of the electrical conductor, and movable between a retracted position fully within the lead and an extended position advanced beyond the distal end of the lead for effecting penetration into the myocardial tissue; a generally planar bulkhead member extending transversely of the longitudinal axis and located proximally of the electrically active helix in the retracted position; and a guide system located proximally of the bulkhead member, the guide system comprising a spiral track member adapted to engage the active fixation electrode for rotating the electrically active helix about the longitudinal axis as the helix is moved between the retracted and extended positions.