Patent ID: 6082367
Filing Date: 2000-07-04
Classification: A61N,G16H

Abstract:
In conjunction with an implantable medical device (IMD), a system for communicating audible sounds denoting implantable medical device information of an implantable medical device during a communication session with the implantable medical device and an audible warning from the implantable medical device implanted in a patient to advise the patient to take appropriate action, the system comprising:means for providing a communication link signal from a location outside the body of the patient to initiate a communication session with the implantable medical device;receiving means located within the implantable medical device for receiving the communication link signal and commencing the communication session;monitoring means for monitoring an operation of said implantable medical device indicative of a danger to the patient and for providing a warning trigger signal in response thereto;audible sound emitting means responsive to the commencement of the communication session for emitting at least a first audible sound in an audio frequency range audibly hearable by the patient and/or medical care provider from the implantable medical device that is transmitted through the patient's body and conveys implantable medical device information and responsive to the warning provided by said monitoring means for emitting a second audible sound in an audio frequency range audibly hearable by the patient or medical care provider from the implantable medical device that is transmitted through the patient's body and conveys the warning to advise the patient to take appropriate action wherein the audible sound emitting means includes energy conservation means to generate low volume which is not human audible without the use of an external audio amplifier or stethoscope.