Source: https://patents.google.com/patent/JP2007532178A/en
Timestamp: 2020-01-20 10:39:55
Document Index: 246600982

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 510', 'art 510', 'art 510', 'art 510', 'art 510', 'art 510', 'art 510', 'art 510', 'art 510', 'art 510', 'art 510', 'art 610', 'art 610', 'art 610', 'art 610', 'art 610', 'art 610', 'art 610', 'art 610', 'art 610', 'art 610', 'art 610']

JP2007532178A - Subcutaneous heart rhythm management - Google Patents
Subcutaneous heart rhythm management Download PDF
JP2007532178A
JP2007532178A JP2007507326A JP2007507326A JP2007532178A JP 2007532178 A JP2007532178 A JP 2007532178A JP 2007507326 A JP2007507326 A JP 2007507326A JP 2007507326 A JP2007507326 A JP 2007507326A JP 2007532178 A JP2007532178 A JP 2007532178A
JP2007507326A
カマス、アパーヴ
ファヴェット、マイケル、エル．
ロベット、エリック、ジー．
ワグナー、ダレル、オーヴィン
2004-04-08 Priority to US10/820,642 priority Critical patent/US7570997B2/en
2005-03-14 Application filed by カーディアック ペースメーカーズ，インコーポレイテッド filed Critical カーディアック ペースメーカーズ，インコーポレイテッド
2005-03-14 Priority to PCT/US2005/008583 priority patent/WO2005102450A1/en
2007-11-15 Publication of JP2007532178A publication Critical patent/JP2007532178A/en
Systems and methods are provided for sensing cardiac activity from a subcutaneous non-thoracic location and detecting a cardiac condition requiring treatment in response to the sensed cardiac activity. One of a number of heart therapies can be performed to treat the detected heart condition, such heart therapies including at least tachycardia therapy, bradycardia therapy, and anti-systole therapy .
The present invention relates generally to medical devices, and more particularly to implantable or partially implantable subcutaneous systems and methods for detecting cardiac activity and treating adverse cardiac events or conditions.
A healthy heart produces regular synchronized contractions. The rhythmic contraction of the heart is usually initiated by the sinoatrial (SA) node, a specialized cell located in the upper right atrium. SA nodules are normal pacemakers for the heart that typically start a heartbeat of 60-100 beats per minute. When the SA node is pacing the heart normally, the heart is said to be in a normal sinus rhythm.
A heart is said to be arrhythmic if the electrical activity of the heart becomes uncoordinated or irregular. Cardiac arrhythmias can reduce heart efficiency and potentially become fatal events. Cardiac arrhythmias have a number of etiological sources, including a decrease in the heart's ability to generate or synchronize electrical impulses that regulate tissue damage, infection, or contraction due to myocardial infarction.
Bradycardia occurs when the heart rhythm is too slow. This condition may be caused, for example, by dysfunction of the SA node, called sinus failure syndrome, or by propagation delay or blockage of electrical impulses between the atria and ventricles. Bradycardia produces a heartbeat that is too slow to maintain proper circulation.
If the heart rate is too fast, the condition is called tachycardia. Tachycardia may have its origin in either the atria or the ventricles. For example, tachycardia that occurs in the atrium of the heart includes atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. Both states are characterized by rapid contraction of the atria. In addition to being hemodynamically inefficient, fast contraction of the atrium can adversely affect ventricular peristalsis.
Ventricular tachycardia occurs, for example, when electrical activity in the ventricular myocardium occurs at a faster rate than normal sinus rhythm. Ventricular tachycardia can quickly transform into ventricular fibrillation. Ventricular fibrillation is a condition manifested by extremely fast, uncoordinated electrical activity within ventricular tissue. The fast vagal excitement of ventricular tissue interferes with synchronized contraction, impairs the heart's ability to pump blood effectively into the body, and is fatal if the heart does not restore sinus rhythm within minutes .
Implantable cardiac rhythm management systems have been used as an effective treatment for patients with severe arrhythmias. These systems typically include one or more leads and circuits that sense signals from one or more internal and / or external surfaces of the heart. Such a system also includes circuitry for generating electrical pulses that are applied to the heart tissue at one or more internal and / or external surfaces of the heart. For example, a lead that extends into the patient's heart is connected to an electrode that contacts the myocardium to sense the heart's electrical signals and deliver pulses to the heart in accordance with various therapies for treating arrhythmias described above. The
Implantable cardioverters / defibrillators (ICDs) have been used as an effective treatment for patients with severe cardiac arrhythmias. For example, a typical ICD includes one or more endocardial leads to which at least one defibrillation electrode is connected. Such an ICD can deliver a high energy shock to the heart, interrupt ventricular tachyarrhythmia or ventricular fibrillation, and allow the heart to resume normal sinus rhythm. The ICD can also include a pacing function.
Although ICD is very effective in preventing sudden cardiac death (SCD), most people at risk for SCD do not have implantable defibrillators. The main reason for this unfortunate reality is the limited number of physicians qualified to perform transvenous lead / electrode transplants and the number of surgical facilities with appropriate equipment for such cardiac procedures. And limited number of at-risk patient populations who can safely receive the required endocardial or epicardial lead / electrode implantation procedure.
The present invention is directed to medical devices and methods for multiple viable treatments that use one or more components configured for subcutaneous non-thoracic placement of a patient. In one embodiment, the system of the present invention includes a detection circuit, an energy delivery circuit, and a controller. The energy delivery circuit can perform a number of cardiac therapies, including at least tachycardia therapy, bradycardia therapy, and anti-systole therapy. One or more electrodes of the system are configured for subcutaneous non-thoracic placement and to couple to a detection circuit and an energy delivery circuit. The controller is coupled to the detection circuit and the energy delivery circuit. The controller coordinates the execution of a selected one of tachycardia, bradycardia, and anti-systole treatment in response to a cardiac condition that requires treatment.
In various embodiments, the housing is configured to be implanted in a patient, and one or more of a detection circuit, an energy delivery circuit, and a control device are disposed within the housing. One or more electrodes can also be placed in or on the housing. One or more electrodes may be supported on the leads or may be supported by an electrode support extending from the housing. For example, the system can include one or more subcutaneous non-thoracic electrode arrays that support one or more electrodes. In other embodiments, the housing can define a unitary structure such that the electrodes are mounted on or within the housing. The housing can have an arcuate shape, for example.
In various embodiments, the enclosure is configured for patient extracorporeal placement, and one or more of a detection circuit, an energy delivery circuit, and a controller are located within the enclosure. The housing may include one or more electrodes coupled to the detection circuit and the energy delivery circuit. The system can further include one or more surface electrodes configured to couple to the detection circuit and the energy delivery circuit. In a patient extracorporeal configuration, the coupling device can be used and configured to couple or separate one or more implantable and / or surface electrodes from the detection circuit and the energy delivery circuit.
In certain embodiments, a number of viable cardiac therapies include bradycardia pacing therapy, cardiac resynchronization therapy, anti-tachycardia pacing therapy, defibrillation therapy, heart rate smoothing pacing therapy, and / or subthreshold stimulation therapy. Of at least some of them.
In other embodiments, the methods of the present invention include sensing cardiac activity from a subcutaneous non-thoracic location and detecting a cardiac condition that requires treatment in response to the sensed cardiac activity. The method further includes performing one of a number of heart therapies to treat the detected heart condition, such heart therapies comprising at least tachycardia therapy, bradycardia therapy, and systolic dysfunction. Including treatment. Energy for cardiac therapy can be provided from a patient external source or from a patient internal source.
The above summary of the present invention is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. The advantages and achievements of the present invention will become apparent and appreciated by referring to the following detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, together with a more complete understanding of the invention. .
While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific details are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.
In the following description of the illustrated embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
An implant device according to the present invention can include one or more of the features, structures, methods, or combinations thereof described herein. For example, a cardiac stimulating device can be implemented to include one or more of the advantageous features and / or processes described below. Such a stimulator or other implant or partial implant device need not include all of the features described herein, but can be implemented to include selected features that provide unique structure and / or function. Is intended to be able to. Such a device can be implemented to achieve a wide variety of therapeutic or diagnostic functions.
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to cardiac stimulators in which at least some elements are configured for subcutaneous non-thoracic placement of the body. The cardiac stimulator senses cardiac activity and detects adverse cardiac events or conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias (eg bradycardia, tachycardia, fibrillation), post-shock systolic failure, and low cardiac output Composed. The cardiac stimulator is configured to perform a number of therapies. Such therapies include, but are not limited to, tachycardia treatments including defibrillation treatments, bradycardia treatments, and anti-systole treatments. In response to the detection of an adverse cardiac event or condition that requires treatment, the cardiac stimulator determines which of several available treatments are suitable for treating the subject event or condition. Perform appropriate treatment.
Various embodiments are directed to cardiac stimulators that can be implemented to achieve transthoracic subcutaneous pacing, for example, for integrated methods of anti-systole, anti-bradycardia pacing, and anti-tachycardia pacing. Subcutaneous transthoracic pacing can be used for other applications where endocardial / epicardial pacing has traditionally been used. For example, subcutaneous pacing can be used to induce tachyarrhythmia. Such cardiac stimulators can be used to deliver single-phase, two-phase, and multi-phase (eg, three-phase) waveforms that are useful for inducing cardiac stimulation.
Subcutaneous transthoracic pacing can be used as part of a cardiac rhythm management system for systolic, anti-bradycardia, and anti-tachycardia applications. Various subcutaneous transthoracic pacing therapies can be combined with subcutaneous transthoracic defibrillation and cardioversion therapy to provide an integrated and comprehensive method of cardiac rhythm management. Systems incorporating some or all of these functions can be implanted subcutaneously or provided outside the body if temporarily needed.
Subcutaneous transthoracic pacing according to embodiments of the present invention can open a new direction in transplant rhythm management systems. To reduce implantation complexity, such devices can use subcutaneous transthoracic stimulation for pacing and defibrillation purposes. Such devices can also bring new directions in extracorporeal heart rhythm management systems. Subcutaneous transthoracic pacing can be more tolerated than conventional percutaneous transthoracic pacing. In one configuration, for example, an external pulse generator can be connected to the subcutaneous electrode for the purpose of performing various types of transthoracic pacing as described above and below. The combination of external pulse generator and subcutaneous electrode can result in better patient acceptance when temporary support is required.
From an implant device perspective, a system or device that uses subcutaneous transthoracic pacing allows the development of an implant system that operates from a subcutaneous location rather than a traditional transvenous or epicardial environment. In the case of extracorporeal systems, this method can solve the problem if the patient is not well tolerated by transcutaneous stimuli.
In various embodiments, the cardiac stimulator can be configured to perform a cardiac therapy, such as cardiac resynchronization therapy, anti-tachycardia pacing therapy, defibrillation therapy, heart rate smoothing or readjustment pacing. Treatment, subthreshold stimulation therapy, subcutaneous non-thoracic pacing cardioversion or defibrillation therapy, intrathoracic pacing cardioversion or defibrillation therapy, or combined intrathoracic / non-thoracic pacing cardioversion or defibrillation therapy Can do. In certain embodiments, the cardiac stimulating device can be configured to include only subcutaneous non-thoracic components, including subcutaneous non-thoracic electrodes (electrodes separate from the can electrode and / or device housing). . In other embodiments, the cardiac stimulator is configured to include one or more epicardial, endocardial, or subcutaneous non-thoracic and intrathoracic components such as transvenous leads / electrodes. Can do.
Various embodiments can also include one or more non-electrophysiological sensors for sensing heart or heart related activity, or sensors for sensing other physiological conditions. Such non-electrophysiological sensors include, among others, optical blood sensors (oxymetric sensors and / or photoplethysmographic sensors), accelerometers, transthoracic impedance sensors, pressure sensors, ultrasonic sensors, And a temperature sensor. These sensors can be implantable sensors, external sensors, or partially implantable in the body. Such sensors can enhance or verify cardiac signal evaluation and detection in the presence of cardiac signal noise or electrocardiographic artifacts and / or enhance cardiac arrhythmia detection and discrimination.
Various embodiments are directed to a cardiac stimulation system that includes an external therapy device and one or more internal leads / electrodes. The internal lead / electrode is preferably configured for subcutaneous non-thoracic placement within the body. Further, the internal lead / electrode can include one or more epicardial, endocardial, or transvenous leads / electrodes. The external therapy device is configured to detect cardiac activity and adverse cardiac events or conditions. The external treatment device is configured to perform a number of treatments, which can include, but are not limited to, tachycardia treatments including defibrillation treatments, bradycardia treatments, and anti-systole treatments. In response to the detection of an adverse cardiac event or condition that requires treatment, an external therapeutic cardiac stimulator determines which of several available therapies are suitable for treating the subject event or condition. Perform appropriate treatment.
With respect to embodiments directed to an internal heart stimulator, one such device is an implantable transthoracic heart sensing and / or stimulation (ITCS) device that can be implanted under the skin in a patient's chest region. is there. An ITCS device is, for example, such that all or selected elements of the device are placed on the front, back, sides, or other body part suitable for sensing cardiac activity and achieving cardiac stimulation therapy. Can be implanted subcutaneously. The elements of the ITCS device can be placed in several different body parts, such as the chest, abdomen, or subclavian region, with the electrode elements placed in different regions near, around, inside, or above the heart, respectively. Please understand that you can.
The primary housing (eg, active or inactive can) of the ITCS device can be located, for example, in the intercostal or lower rib space, in the abdomen, or in the upper ribcage region (eg, the subclavian position, such as above the third rib). It can be configured so as to be arranged. In one embodiment, one or more electrodes can be placed on the primary rod and / or at other locations near the heart, large blood vessels, or coronary vasculature without directly contacting them.
In another embodiment, the ITCS device is in direct contact with the cardiovascular or coronary vasculature, such as via one or more leads implanted by use of conventional, conventional transvenous or epicardial delivery methods. One or more leads incorporating electrodes configured to be disposed may be included. An ITCS device of this configuration can be considered as a hybrid system that can operate in multiple modes including intrathoracic mode, subcutaneous non-thoracic mode, or a combination of these modes (operating in parallel or sequentially). it can. In general, ITCS devices that use intrathoracic leads / electrodes use intrathoracic electrodes, subcutaneous non-thoracic electrodes, or combinations of these electrodes to perform a wide variety of sensing, detection, diagnostic, and therapeutic operations. Can be executed. Inclusion of intrathoracic electrodes can be done for enhanced cardiac management functions, including monitoring, pacing, defibrillation, resynchronization, and subthreshold stimulation functions.
As an example, an ITCS device using one or more intrathoracic leads / electrodes is configured to achieve multi-chamber or multi-site pacing for the treatment of systolic dysfunction while simultaneously treating bradycardia and tachycardia can do. The ITCS device having this configuration operates as a cardiac function management device or a CFM device, and can improve the pump function by changing the cardiac contraction sequence while maintaining the pumping speed and rhythm. Various ITCS device embodiments described herein can be used in connection with monitoring, diagnosis, and / or treatment of congestive heart failure. Methods, structures, and / or techniques directed to CHF procedures, such as those associated with dual chamber or biventricular pacing / therapy, cardiac resynchronization therapy, cardiac function optimization, or other CHF related methods, are disclosed in the ITCS of the present invention. Can be incorporated into the device.
An ITCS device that uses one or more intrathoracic leads / electrodes can be configured to provide heart rate smoothing or ordered pacing therapy. Heart rate smoothing provides some control over the rate of change of the ventricular pacing rate. According to one method, the rate of change of the ventricular pacing rate is preferably controlled from cycle to cycle to maintain the rate of change within a programmed percentage of the rate of the previous cycle. This function is achieved through comparing the ventricular pacing rate of each cycle to a “rate window” or percentage of the period of the previous cardiac cycle, where the period of the pacing pulse is cycled by the range defined by the rate window. Ensure that you are constrained. It is highly advantageous to control when and under what cardiac conditions the heart rate smoothing program is turned on / off, or adjusting its parameters. This control can deactivate heart rate smoothing if the use of heart rate smoothing is detrimental to or constrains the rapid heart rate acceleration or deceleration required for the patient. Furthermore, the number of pacing pulses delivered to the patient can be reduced by selectively turning off heart rate smoothing or adjusting heart rate smoothing parameters.
As a further example, an ITCS device that uses one or more intrathoracic leads / electrodes can be used for a variety of purposes, including enhancing cardiac contractility and / or systolic capacity regulation and automation via subthreshold current. To that end, it can be configured to provide subthreshold electrical stimulation to the heart. For example, anodic stimulating components enhance cardiac contractility by hyperpolarizing tissue prior to excitement, leading to faster impulse transmission, more intracellular calcium release, and overall better cardiac contraction Biphasic electrical stimulation can be applied to the myocardium. The cathodic stimulation component of the biphasic electrical stimulation provides effective cardiac stimulation at lower voltages than is required with anodic stimulation alone. This in turn extends the life of the pacemaker battery and reduces tissue damage.
The ITCS device can incorporate electrical stimulation therapy so that the magnitude of the anode phase of the electrical stimulation waveform does not exceed the maximum subthreshold amplitude. The anodic phase of the electrical stimulation waveform serves to precondition the stimulated myocardium, thereby lowering the excitatory threshold, causing depolarization to occur due to cathodic stimulation of lower intensity than normal, leading to contraction. The ITCS device of the present invention can incorporate features and functions that facilitate subthreshold electrical stimulation.
In a further embodiment, an ITCS device configuration using an active can, or a configuration using an inactive can electrode, senses cardiac activity using one or more subcutaneous electrode subsystems or electrode arrays to generate cardiac stimulation energy. Can be sent out. The electrodes can be placed in an anterior and / or posterior position relative to the heart.
The particular configuration shown here is generally described as being capable of implementing various functions conventionally performed by an implantable cardioverter / defibrillator (ICD), as is well known in the art, Can operate in multiple cardioversion / defibrillation modes. Such ICD circuits, structures, and functions can be incorporated into an ITCS device of the type described herein (eg, a pure subcutaneous device or a hybrid device). In certain configurations, the systems and methods can perform functions traditionally performed by pacemakers, such as providing various pacing therapies well known in the art in addition to cardioversion / defibrillation therapies. It is understood that the configuration of the ITCS device can provide non-physiological pacing support in addition to or excluding bradycardia and / or anti-tachycardia pacing therapy. The ITCS device according to the present invention can realize not only a cardiac stimulation treatment but also a diagnosis and / or monitoring function.
The ITCS device can be used to implement various diagnostic functions, which can include performing heart rate based, pattern and heart rate based, and / or morphological tachyarrhythmia discriminant analysis. For the purpose of enhancing the detection and cessation of tachyarrhythmia, subcutaneous, skin, and / or external sensors can be used to obtain physiological and non-physiological information. The configurations, features, and combinations of features described in this disclosure can be implemented in a wide range of implantable medical devices and / or such embodiments and features are limited to the specific devices described herein. Please understand that it is not.
Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B of the drawings, an ITCS device configuration is shown having components implanted at various locations in a patient's chest region. In the particular configuration shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the ITCS device includes a housing 102 that can accommodate various cardiac sensing, detection, processing, and energy delivery circuits. It should be understood that the components and functions shown in the figures and described herein can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Further, components and functions depicted in the figure as separate or discrete blocks / elements can be implemented in combination with other components and functions, such components and functions in individual or integrated form It should be understood that the depiction of is intended to be clear and not limiting.
The housing 102 is provided with communication circuitry that facilitates communication between the ITCS device and an external communication device such as a portable or bedside communication station, a patient-carrying / wearing communication station, or an external programmer. The communication circuit also facilitates unidirectional or bidirectional communication with one or more external skin or subcutaneous physiological or non-physiological sensors. The housing 102 is generally configured to include one or more electrodes (eg, can electrodes and / or indifferent electrodes). Although the housing 102 is generally configured as an active can, it is understood that an inactive can configuration can be realized, in which case at least two electrodes spaced from the housing 102 are used. I want.
In the configuration shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the subcutaneous electrode 104 can be placed under the skin in the breast region and located distally from the housing 102. The subcutaneous electrode and, if applicable, the rod electrode can be placed in various positions and orientations around the heart, such as various anterior and / or posterior positions relative to the heart. Subcutaneous electrode 104 is coupled to circuitry within housing 102 via lead assembly 106. One or more conductors (eg, coils or cables) are provided in the lead assembly 106 to electrically couple the subcutaneous electrode 104 with circuitry in the housing 102. One or more sensing, sensing / pacing, or defibrillation electrodes are elongated structures of the electrode support, the housing 102, and / or the distal electrode assembly (shown as the subcutaneous electrode 104 in the configuration shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B). Can be placed on top.
In one configuration, the lead assembly 106 is generally flexible and has a structure similar to a conventional implantable medical electrical lead (eg, a defibrillation lead or a combined defibrillation / pacing lead). In another configuration, the lead assembly 106 is configured to be somewhat flexible, but nevertheless has an elastic, spring, or mechanical memory that maintains the desired configuration after being shaped or manipulated by the clinician. Have. For example, the lead assembly 106 can incorporate a gooseneck or blade system that can be deformed by manual force to assume a desired shape. In this way, the lead assembly 106 can be shape-fitted to fit a given patient's unique anatomical configuration and generally maintains an individualized shape after implantation. The shaping of the lead assembly 106 with this configuration can be performed before and during implantation of the ITCS device.
In a further configuration, the lead assembly 106 includes an electrode support assembly such as a rigid or semi-rigid elongate structure that stabilizes the position of the subcutaneous electrode 104 relative to the housing 102. In this configuration, the rigidity of the elongated structure maintains the desired pacing between the subcutaneous electrode 104 and the housing 102 and the desired orientation of the subcutaneous electrode 104 / housing 102 relative to the patient's heart. The elongate structure can be formed from a structural plastic, composite material, or metal material and includes or is covered by a biocompatible material. When the elongated structure is formed from a conductive material such as metal, appropriate electrical insulation between the housing 102 and the subcutaneous electrode 104 is provided.
In one configuration, the electrode support assembly and the housing 102 define a unitary structure (eg, a single housing / unit). The electronic components and electrode conductors / connectors are placed in or on a single integrated ITCS device housing / electrode support assembly. At least two electrodes are supported on a unitary structure near both ends of the housing / electrode support assembly. The monolithic structure can have, for example, an arc shape or an angular shape.
In another configuration, the electrode support assembly defines a physically separate unit relative to the housing 102. The electrode support assembly includes mechanical and electrical couplers that facilitate mating engagement with the corresponding mechanical and electrical couplers of the housing 102. For example, the header block device can be configured to include both electrical and mechanical couplers in preparation for mechanical and electrical connections between the electrode support assembly and the housing 102. The header block device can be provided on the housing 102 or the electrode support assembly. Alternatively, a mechanical / electrical coupler can be used to establish a mechanical and electrical connection between the electrode support assembly and the housing 102. In such a configuration, a wide variety of different electrode support assemblies of various shapes, sizes, and electrode configurations can be utilized to physically and electrically connect to the standard ITCS device housing 102.
It is pointed out that the electrode and lead assembly 106 can be configured to take a wide variety of shapes. For example, the lead assembly 106 may be wedge-shaped, chevron-shaped, oblong-elliptical, or ribbon-shaped, and the subcutaneous electrode 104 may include composite electrodes that are spaced apart like arrayed or strip-shaped electrodes. it can. Further, more than one subcutaneous electrode 104 can be attached to multiple electrode support assemblies 106 to achieve the desired spacing relationship between the subcutaneous electrodes 104.
FIG. 1C is a block diagram illustrating various components of an ITCS device according to one configuration. In this configuration, the ITCS device incorporates a processor-based control system 205 that includes a microprocessor 206 coupled to appropriate memory (volatile or non-volatile) 209, although any logic-based control architecture may be used. Please understand that you can. The control system 205 is a circuit and component that senses, detects, and analyzes electrical signals generated by the heart and delivers electrical stimulation energy to the heart to treat cardiac arrhythmias under predetermined conditions. Combined. In certain configurations, the control system 205 and related components also provide pacing therapy to the heart. The electrical energy delivered by the ITCS device can be in the form of a low energy pacing pulse, or a high energy pulse for cardioversion or defibrillation.
Cardiac signals are sensed using subcutaneous electrodes and cans or indifferent electrodes 207 provided on the ITCS device housing. The cardiac signal can also be sensed using only the subcutaneous electrode 214, as in the inactive can configuration. As such, not only monopolar, bipolar, or monopolar / bipolar composite electrode configurations, but also multi-element electrodes and combinations of noise cancellation and standard electrodes can be used. The sensed cardiac signal is received by sensing circuit 204, which includes a sense amplifier circuit and can also include a filtering circuit and an analog to digital (A / D) converter. The sensed cardiac signal processed by the sensing circuit 204 can be received by a noise reduction circuit 203 that can further reduce noise before the signal is sent to the detection circuit 202.
The noise reduction circuit 203 can also be incorporated after the sensing circuit 204 or the detection circuit 202 if a high power or computationally intensive noise reduction algorithm is required. The noise reduction circuit 203 can perform the function of the sensing circuit 204 via an amplifier that is used to perform operations with electrode signals. Combining the functions of the sensing circuit 204, the detection circuit 202, and / or the noise reduction circuit 203 may be useful in minimizing the necessary components and reducing the power requirements of the system.
In the exemplary configuration shown in FIG. 1C, the detection circuit 202 is coupled to or otherwise incorporates the noise reduction circuit 203. The noise reduction circuit 203 operates to improve the signal to noise ratio (SNR) of the sensed heart signal by removing noise components of the sensed heart signal introduced from various sources. Typical types of transthoracic heart signal noise include, for example, electrical noise and noise originating from skeletal muscle.
The detection circuit 202 generally includes a signal processor that coordinates the analysis of sensed cardiac signals and / or other sensor inputs to detect cardiac arrhythmias, particularly tachyarrhythmias. A heart rate-based and / or morphological discrimination algorithm can be implemented by the signal processor of the detection circuit 202 to detect and verify the presence and severity of arrhythmia attacks.
The detection circuit 202 communicates cardiac signal information to the control system 205. The memory circuit 209 of the control system 205 stores data indicative of the cardiac signal received by the detection circuit 202, including parameters for operating in various sensing, defibrillation, and pacing modes where applicable. The memory circuit 209 can also be configured to store ECG history and treatment data, which can be used for various purposes and sent to an external receiver as needed or desired.
In certain configurations, the ITCS device can include a diagnostic circuit 210. Diagnostic circuit 210 generally receives input signals from detection circuit 202 and sensing circuit 204. Although the diagnostic circuit 210 provides diagnostic data to the control system 205, it should be understood that the control system 205 may incorporate a front or part of the diagnostic circuit 210 or its function. The control system 205 can store and use information provided by the diagnostic circuit 210 for a wide variety of diagnostic purposes. Diagnostic information can be stored, for example, following an evoked event or at predetermined intervals, and can include system diagnostics such as power status, treatment performance history, and / or patient diagnostics. The diagnostic information can take the form of electrical signals or other sensor data acquired immediately before performing the treatment.
In a configuration that provides cardioversion and defibrillation therapy, the control system 205 processes the cardiac signal data received from the detection circuit 202 to provide an appropriate frequency to stop the cardiac arrhythmia attack and return the heart to normal sinus rhythm. Initiate treatment for pulse arrhythmia. Control system 205 is coupled to shock therapy circuit 216. The shock therapy circuit 216 is coupled to the subcutaneous electrode 214 and the ITCS device housing can or indifferent electrode 207. In response to the command, the shock therapy circuit 216 delivers cardioversion and defibrillation stimulation energy to the heart according to the selected cardioversion or defibrillation therapy. In a less complex configuration, the shock therapy circuit 216 is controlled to perform a defibrillation therapy, as opposed to a configuration that provides for both cardioversion and defibrillation therapy.
In another configuration, the ITCS device can incorporate cardiac pacing functions in addition to cardioversion and / or defibrillation functions. As shown by the dashed lines in FIG. 1C, the ITCS device can include a pacing therapy circuit 230 coupled to the control system 205 and the subcutaneous and can / indifferent electrodes 214,207. In response to the command, the pacing therapy circuit delivers a pacing pulse to the heart according to the selected pacing therapy. A control signal generated by a pacemaker circuit in system 205 is activated in accordance with the pacing regimen and transmitted to pacing therapy circuit 230 where a pacing pulse is generated. The pacing regimen can be modified by the control system 205.
A number of cardiac pacing therapies in transthoracic heart monitoring and / or stimulation devices may be useful. Such cardiac pacing therapy can be performed via pacing therapy circuit 230, as shown in FIG. 1C. Alternatively, cardiac pacing therapy can be performed via shock therapy circuit 216, thereby virtually eliminating the need for a separate pacemaker circuit.
The ITCS device shown in FIG. 1C is configured to receive signals from one or more physiological and / or non-physiological sensors in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Depending on the type of sensor used, the signal generated by the sensor can be directly coupled to the detection circuit 202 or transmitted to the transducer circuit coupled indirectly via the sensing circuit 204. It is noted that certain sensors can transmit sensing data to the control system 205 without being processed by the detection circuit 202.
The non-electrophysiological heart sensor can be coupled directly to the detection circuit 202 or indirectly via the sensing circuit 204. Non-electrophysiological heart sensors sense cardiac activity of non-electrophysiological nature. Examples of non-electrophysiological heart sensors include blood oxygen sensors, transthoracic impedance sensors, blood volume sensors, acoustic sensors and / or pressure transducers, and accelerometers. Signals from these sensors are generated based on cardiac activity, but are not directly derived from electrophysiological sources (eg, R-waves or P-waves). As shown in FIG. 1C, the non-electrophysiological heart sensor 261 is connected to one or more of the sensing circuit 204, the detection circuit 202 (connection not shown for clarity), and the control system 205. Can do. The ITCS device of the present invention can incorporate non-electrophysiological heart sensors and rhythm detection techniques.
Communication circuit 218 is coupled to microprocessor 206 of control system 205. The communication circuit 218 allows the ITCS device to communicate with one or more receiving devices or systems located outside the ITCS device. As an example, the ITCS device can communicate via a communication circuit 218 with a patient-worn, portable or bedside communication system. In one configuration, one or more physiological or non-physiological sensors (subcutaneous, skin, or outside the patient's body) are short-range, such as interfaces that comply with well-known communication standards such as Bluetooth or IEEE 802 standards. A wireless communication interface can be provided. Data acquired by such sensors can be transmitted to the ITCS device via the communication circuit 218. It is noted that a physiological or non-physiological sensor equipped with a wireless transmitter or transceiver can communicate with a receiving system outside the patient's body.
Communication circuit 218 enables the ITCS device to communicate with an external programmer. In one configuration, communication circuit 218 and programmer unit (not shown) use wire loop antennas and radio frequency remote links well known in the art to send signals and data between programmer unit and communication circuit 218. Send and receive between. In this way, programming commands and data are transferred between the ITCS device and the programmer unit during and after porting. Using a programmer, the physician can set or change various parameters used by the ITCS device. For example, a physician can set or change parameters that affect the sensing, detection, pacing, and defibrillation functions of the ITCS device, including pacing and cardioversion / defibrillation therapy modes.
In general, the ITCS device is housed and hermetically sealed in a housing suitable for implantation in the human body, as is well known in the art. Power to the ITCS device is supplied by an electrochemical power supply 220 housed within the ITCS device. In one configuration, the power supply 220 includes a rechargeable battery. In this configuration, a charging circuit is coupled to the power supply 220 to facilitate repeated non-invasive charging of the power supply 220. To facilitate non-invasive charging of the power supply, communication circuit 218 or a separate receiving circuit is configured to receive RF energy transmitted by an external RF energy transmitter. The ITCS device can include a non-rechargeable battery in addition to the rechargeable power supply. It should be understood that it is not necessary to use a rechargeable power supply, in which case a long-life non-rechargeable battery is used.
FIG. 1D shows the configuration of the detection circuit 302 of the ITCS device including one or both of the heartbeat detection circuit 310 and the morphological analysis circuit 312. Arrhythmia detection and verification can be accomplished using a heart rate based discrimination algorithm implemented by the heart rate detection circuit 310, as is well known in the art. Arrhythmic attacks can also be detected and verified by morphology-based analysis of sensed cardiac signals. A staged or parallel arrhythmia discrimination algorithm can also be implemented using both heart rate and morphology based methods. In addition, heart rate and pattern-based arrhythmia detection and discrimination methods can be used to detect and / or verify arrhythmia attacks.
Detection circuit 302 coupled to microprocessor 306 can be configured to communicate with dedicated circuitry for processing sensed cardiac signals in a manner particularly useful with transthoracic heart sensing and / or stimulation devices. . As shown in FIG. 1D as an example, the detection circuit 302 can receive information from a number of physiological and non-physiological sensors. For example, the transthoracic acoustic effect can be monitored using an appropriate acoustic sensor. For example, heart sounds can be detected and processed by non-electrophysiological heart sensor processing circuitry 318 for a wide variety of purposes. The acoustic data is transmitted to the detection circuit 302 via a hardwire or wireless link and is used to improve cardiac signal detection and / or arrhythmia detection. For example, acoustic information can be used to confirm ECG heart rate based discrimination of arrhythmias in accordance with the present invention.
The detection circuit 302 can also receive information from one or more sensors that monitor skeletal muscle activity. In addition to cardiac activity signals, transthoracic electrodes readily detect skeletal muscle signals. Such skeletal muscle signals can be used to determine a patient's activity level. In cardiac signal detection, such skeletal muscle signals are considered artifacts of the cardiac activity signal, which can be viewed as noise. Processing circuit 316 receives signals from one or more skeletal muscle sensors and transmits processed skeletal muscle signal data to detection circuit 302. This data can be used to distinguish normal heart sinus rhythm with skeletal muscle noise from cardiac arrhythmias.
As described above, the detection circuit 302 is coupled to or otherwise incorporates the noise processing circuit 314. The noise processing circuit 314 processes the sensed heart signal to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the sensed heart signal by reducing the noise component of the sensed heart signal.
The components, functions, and structural configurations shown in FIGS. 1A-1D will provide an understanding of the various features and combinations of features that can be incorporated into an ITCS device or patient extracorporeal system according to certain embodiments. Is intended. It should be understood that a wide variety of ITCS and other implantable and extracorporeal cardiac monitoring and / or stimulation device configurations are possible, ranging from relatively complex to relatively simple designs. As such, certain ITCS or external cardiac monitoring and / or stimulation device configurations may include certain features described herein, while other such device configurations exclude certain functions. can do.
In an embodiment of the present invention, the ITCS device can be implemented to include a subcutaneous electrode system that provides one or both of cardiac sensing and arrhythmia therapy execution. In one method, the ITCS device can be implemented as a long-term implantable system that performs monitoring, diagnostic, and / or therapeutic functions. The ITCS device can automatically detect and treat cardiac arrhythmias.
In one configuration, the ITCS device includes a pulse generator and one or more electrodes that are implanted subcutaneously in the chest region of the body, such as the anterior ribcage region of the body. The ITCS device can be used to provide atrial and / or ventricular treatment for bradycardia, tachycardia, and systolic failure. Tachyarrhythmia treatment can include, for example, cardioversion to address atrial or ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, defibrillation, and anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP). The bradycardia treatment can include one or more known bradycardia pacing therapies.
In one configuration, a one-method ITCS device can utilize conventional pulse generator and subcutaneous electrode implantation techniques. Pulse generators and electrodes can be implanted subcutaneously for long periods of time. Such ITCS devices can be used to automatically detect and treat arrhythmias, similar to conventional implantable systems. In another configuration, the ITCS device can include a unitary structure (eg, a single housing / unit). The electronic components and electrode conductors / connectors are placed in an integrated ITCS device housing / electrode support assembly.
The ITCS device includes electronic components and can be similar to a conventional implantable defibrillator. High voltage shock therapy can be performed between two or more electrodes, one of which can be a pulse generator housing (eg, a can) placed subcutaneously in the body's chest.
Additionally or alternatively, the ITCS device can provide low energy electrical stimulation for bradycardia therapy. The ITCS device can provide bradycardia pacing in a manner similar to pacing therapy performed by conventional pacemakers. The ITCS device can provide temporary post-shock pacing for bradycardia or systolic failure. Sensing and / or pacing can be accomplished using sensing / pacing electrodes placed in an electrode subsystem that also incorporates shock electrodes, or by separate electrodes implanted subcutaneously.
The ITCS device can detect a wide variety of physiological signals that can be used in connection with various diagnostic, therapeutic, or monitoring implementations according to the present invention. For example, an ITCS device can include sensors or circuits for detecting pulse pressure signals, blood oxygen levels, heart sounds, heart enhancement, and other non-electrophysiological signals associated with heart activity. In one embodiment, the ITCS device can sense intrathoracic impedance and derive various respiratory parameters and respiratory patterns therefrom, including, for example, tidal volume and minute ventilation. For example, the ITCS device can analyze respiratory parameters and / or patterns to detect respiratory disorders such as sleep apnea. For example, in response to detecting sleep apnea, the ITCS device may provide a therapy that addresses the detected sleep apnea, such as by performing appropriate pacing or other cardiac stimulation therapy (eg, overdrive pacing). Can be executed. Sensors and associated circuitry may be incorporated in connection with an ITCS device for detecting one or more signals relating to body movement or body position. For example, accelerometers and GPS devices can be used to detect patient activity, patient position, body orientation, or torso position.
ITCS devices can be used within the structure of an advanced patient management (APM) system. An advanced patient management system can allow a physician to remotely and automatically monitor not only cardiac and respiratory functions, but also other patient conditions. In one embodiment, implantable cardiac rhythm management systems, such as cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators, and resynchronization devices, provide a variety of remote communications that enable patient real-time data collection, diagnosis, and treatment. And can be equipped with information technology. Various embodiments described herein can be used in connection with advanced patient management. The methods, structures, and / or techniques described herein can be adapted to provide for remote patient / device monitoring, diagnosis, treatment, or other APM-related methodologies.
In one method, the ITCS device provides a therapeutic, diagnostic, or monitoring system that is easy to implant. The ITCS system can be implanted without the need for intravenous or intrathoracic access, resulting in a simpler and less invasive implantation procedure, minimizing lead and surgical complications. In addition, this system is advantageous for use in patients whose transvenous lead system causes complications. Such complications include, among others, surgical complications, infections, insufficient defect patency, complications related to the presence of prosthetic valves, and the limitations of pediatric patients due to patient growth. It is not limited. An ITCS system according to this method is distinguished from conventional methods in that it can be configured to include a combination of two or more electrode subsystems implanted subcutaneously in the anterior thorax.
In one configuration shown in FIG. 2A, the electrode subsystem of the ITCS system includes a first electrode subsystem that includes a can electrode 502 and a second electrode subsystem 504 that can include, for example, at least one coil electrode. . The second electrode subsystem 504 can include a number of electrodes used for sensing and / or electrical stimulation. In various configurations, the second electrode subsystem 504 can include a single electrode or a combination of electrodes. A single electrode or combination of electrodes including second electrode subsystem 504 includes, for example, a coil electrode, a tip electrode, a ring electrode, a multi-element coil, a helical coil, a helical coil attached to a non-conductive backplate, and a screen patch electrode Can be included. A suitable non-conductive backing material is, for example, silicone rubber.
The can electrode 502 is disposed on a housing 501 that encapsulates electronic components of the ITCS device. In one embodiment, the can electrode 502 includes the entire outer surface of the housing 501. In other embodiments, various portions of the housing 501 can be electrically isolated from the can electrode 502 or from tissue. For example, the active area of the can electrode 502 can include all or a portion of either the front or back surface of the housing 501 to direct current in an advantageous manner for cardiac sensing and / or stimulation. In certain embodiments, composite electrodes can be provided on or in the housing 501 and such electrodes are configured for sensing and / or energy delivery (eg, pacing or defibrillation).
The housing 501 can be similar to that of a conventional implantable ICD, with a volume of about 20-100 cc, a thickness of 0.4-2 cm, and a surface area of each side of about 30-100 cm 2 . is there. As described above, a portion of the housing can be electrically isolated from the tissue to optimally direct the current. For example, a portion of the housing 501 is coated with a non-conductive or otherwise electrically resistive material to direct the current. Suitable non-conductive material coatings include, for example, those formed from silicone rubber, polyurethane, or parylene.
FIG. 2A shows a housing 501 and can electrode 502 placed subcutaneously above the heart 510 in the left chest region, a position commonly used for conventional pacemaker and defibrillator implantation. The second electrode subsystem 504 can include a coil electrode attached to the distal end of the lead body 506, where the coil is about 3-15 French in diameter and 5-12 cm in length. The coil electrode can have a slight curvature that is preshaped along its length. The lead can be introduced through the lumen of the subcutaneous sheath by common tunneling implantation techniques, for example, the second electrode subsystem 504, including the coil electrode, is subcutaneously, deep in any subcutaneous fat, and the underlying muscle It can be placed adjacent to the layer.
In this configuration, the second electrode subsystem 504 is positioned generally parallel to the bottom surface of the right ventricle of the heart 510 just below the right ventricular free wall, with one end extending slightly beyond the apex of the heart 510. For example, the tip of electrode subsystem 504 can extend less than about 3 cm and can be located about 1 to 2 cm to the left of the apex of heart 510. As a further example, the electrode subsystem 504 implemented as a coil has a length of about 5 cm, with about 3 cm of the coil placed on the left side of the apex and about 2 cm of the coil placed on the right side of the apex. it can. These electrode arrangements can be used to include most of the ventricular tissue within the volume defined between the housing 501 and the second electrode subsystem 504. In one configuration, the majority of ventricular tissue is associated with a region defined by a plane defined between the distal and proximal ends of the second electrode subsystem 504 and the inner and outer edges of the left chest canister electrode 502. Contained within the volume to be.
In one arrangement, the volume containing the majority of ventricular tissue is limited by a line or plane defined between the ends of the electrode subsystems 502, 504 or between the active elements of the electrode subsystems 502, 504. Can be related to area. In one embodiment, the plane defined between the active elements of the electrode subsystems 502, 504 is the inner and outer edges of the can electrode 502 and the proximal end of the coil electrode utilized in the second electrode subsystem 504. And can include the far end. By placing the electrode subsystem such that the majority of the ventricular tissue is contained within the volume defined between the active elements of the electrode subsystem 502, 504, a given applied voltage between the electrode subsystems 502, 504 is achieved. In contrast, increasing the voltage gradient in the ventricle of the heart 510 provides an effective location for defibrillation.
In the same configuration, as shown in FIG. 2B, the housing 501 including the can electrode 502 is disposed in the right breast region. The second electrode subsystem 504 is positioned more laterally to again include the majority of ventricular tissue within the volume defined between the can electrode 502 and the second electrode subsystem 504.
In a further configuration, as shown in FIG. 2C, an ITCS device housing 501 that includes electrodes (eg, cans) is not used as an electrode. In this case, an electrode system that includes two electrode subsystems 508, 509 coupled to the housing 501 can be implanted subcutaneously in the chest region of the body, such as the anterior thorax. The first and second electrode subsystems 508, 509 are disposed bilaterally with respect to the ventricle of the heart 510, and the majority of the ventricular tissue of the heart 510 is contained within the volume defined between the electrode subsystems 508, 509. . As shown in FIG. 2C, the first electrode system 508 is disposed above the heart 510, for example, parallel to the left ventricular free wall with respect to the bottom surface of the heart 510. The second electrode system 509 is disposed below the heart 510 and is disposed with respect to the bottom surface of the heart 510, for example, in parallel with the right ventricular free wall.
In this configuration, the first and second electrode subsystems 508, 509 can include any combination of electrodes used for sensing and / or electrical stimulation, including or excluding can electrodes. In various configurations, the electrode subsystems 508, 509 can each be a single electrode or a combination of electrodes. The single or multiple electrodes including the first and second electrode subsystems 508, 509 are, for example, one or more coil electrodes, tip electrodes, ring electrodes, multi-element coils, helical coils mounted on a non-conductive back plate , And any combination of screen patch electrodes.
3A-3C provide additional details of a subcutaneous electrode subsystem arrangement that may be particularly useful for patient implantation layer formation, according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3A shows first and second electrode subsystems configured as a can electrode 602 and a coil electrode 604, respectively. FIG. 3A shows a can electrode 602 positioned above the heart 610 in the left chest region and a coil electrode 604 positioned parallel to the right ventricular free wall of the heart 610 below the heart 610.
The can electrode 602 and the coil electrode 604 are disposed so as to be contained within a volume defined between the can electrode 602 and the coil electrode 604. FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectional area 605 formed by a plane defined between the active elements of the can electrode 602 and the coil electrode 604. The plane defined between the active areas of the electrodes 602, 604 can be defined by the inner and outer edges of the can electrode 602 and the near and far ends of the coil electrodes utilized as the second electrode subsystem 604. . Coil electrode 604 extends a predetermined distance from the tip of heart 610, for example, less than about 3 cm. In another configuration, the coil electrode 604 may have a length of about 5 cm, with about 3 cm of the coil electrode 604 positioned on the left side of the apex and about 2 cm of the coil electrode 604 positioned on the right side of the apex.
A similar configuration is shown in FIG. 3B. In this embodiment, the can electrode 602 is placed above the heart 610 in the right thoracic region. The coil electrode 604 is disposed below the heart. In one arrangement, the coil electrode is positioned relative to the bottom surface of the heart 610, eg, the apex of the heart. Can electrode 602 and coil electrode 604 are positioned such that the majority of ventricular tissue is contained within the volume defined between can electrode 602 and coil electrode 604.
FIG. 3B shows a cross-sectional area 605 formed by a plane defined between the active elements of the can electrode 602 and the coil electrode 604. The plane defined between the active areas of the electrodes 602, 604 can be defined by the inner and outer edges of the can electrode 602 and the near and far ends of the coil electrodes utilized as the second electrode subsystem 604. . Coil electrode 604 extends a predetermined distance from the tip of heart 610, for example, less than about 3 cm. As described above in connection with FIG. 3A, the coil electrode 604 has a length of approximately 5 cm, with approximately 3 cm of the coil electrode 604 disposed on the left side of the apex and approximately 2 cm of the coil electrode 604 disposed on the right side of the apex. can do.
FIG. 3C shows a configuration in which the pulse generator housing 601 does not include an electrode. In this embodiment, the two electrode subsystems are placed around the heart so that the majority of ventricular tissue is contained within the volume defined between the electrode subsystems. In this embodiment, the first and second electrodes are configured as first and second coil electrodes 608 and 609. The first coil electrode 608 is disposed above the heart 610 and can be disposed relative to the bottom surface of the heart, for example, the left ventricular free wall. The second coil electrode 609 is disposed below the heart 610. The second electrode 609 can be disposed relative to the bottom surface of the heart 610. In one configuration, the second electrode 609 is positioned parallel to the right ventricular free wall and the tip of the electrode 609 extends beyond about 3 cm from the apex of the heart 610. In another configuration, as described above, the second electrode 609 has a length of about 5 cm, about 3 cm of the second electrode 609 is positioned on the left side of the apex, and about 2 cm of the second electrode 609 is set on the right side of the apex. Can be arranged. As shown in FIG. 3, the volume defined between the electrodes can be characterized by a cross-sectional area 605 that is limited by the surface defined between the active areas of the electrodes 608,609.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a heart detection and treatment execution method according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, cardiac activity is sensed from the subcutaneous location (702). A cardiac condition or event that requires treatment is detected (704). Detection of a cardiac condition or event can be performed at a subcutaneous location or a location outside the patient's body. A determination is made as to which of a number of available therapies are suitable for treating the detected cardiac condition or event (706). This determination (706) can be made at a subcutaneous location or a location outside the patient's body.
By way of example, as shown in the particular embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, available heart treatments may include tachycardia treatments including defibrillation treatments, bradycardia treatments, and anti-systole treatments. it can. Appropriate treatment (or treatments) is performed 708, eg, tachycardia, bradycardia, or anti-systole treatment. An energy waveform associated with the treatment being performed can be generated at a subcutaneous location or at a location outside the patient's body.
In one embodiment of anti-systole treatment, the ITCS device detects systolic insufficiency after performing a defibrillation therapy and in response performs a life-supporting non-physiological transthoracic pacing therapy to detect Can be programmed to interrupt a given systolic failure. The pacing therapy delivers pacing pulses at a rate much lower than the bradycardia pacing rate. The pacing therapy can include delivery of pacing pulses at a gradually increasing rate, a gradually decreasing rate, or a substantially constant rate over the entire period of treatment or a predetermined period of time. For example, a given pacing interval can be increased by a fixed amount or by a certain percentage relative to the previous pacing interval. The pacing therapy can alternatively include delivery of a series of pacing pulses, where the series of pacing pulses is delivered at least one sequence delivered at a variable rate and at least once delivered at a substantially constant rate. Including the sequence.
In this regard, pacing is provided only as a means of maintaining a patient's life after a shock during systolic failure. The maximum pacing interval is short enough to maintain life, but is preferably long enough not to fully restore the patient's consciousness, especially when pacing may be perceived as painful. Suitable pacing rates are generally between 2 and 40 pulses per minute (ppm), with 5-20 ppm representing a typical pacing rate. The pacing electrode can be the same as the shock electrode, or can include one or more dedicated pacing electrodes.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a heart detection and treatment execution method according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, cardiac activity is sensed from a subcutaneous location (800). A cardiac condition or event that requires treatment is detected (802). As in the previous embodiment, detection of a cardiac condition or event can be performed at a subcutaneous location or a location outside the patient's body. A determination is made as to which of a number of available therapies are suitable for treating the detected cardiac condition or event (804), which is performed at a subcutaneous location or a location outside the patient's body. Can do.
In the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 5, available heart treatments 806 generally include bradycardia treatment 810, tachycardia treatment 812, anti-systole treatment 814, and in particular resynchronization treatment 816, anti-tachycardia. Pacing therapy (ATP) 818, defibrillation therapy 820, heart rate smoothing or regularization therapy 822, subthreshold stimulation therapy 824, or respiratory disorder therapy 825. Appropriate treatment (s) are performed 840 at least partially implantable. An energy waveform associated with the treatment 840 to be performed can be generated at a subcutaneous location or a location outside the patient's body. The treatment shown in FIG. 5 can be realized according to the method described above or a known method.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of various components of a heart detection and treatment execution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 6, system 900 includes an electrode device configured to be implanted in a patient. The system 900 also includes components that are external to the patient's body. In particular, the system 900 of FIG. 6 includes at least one electrode device 902 configured for subcutaneous non-thoracic placement within the body. The patient extracorporeal components of system 900 include a heart treatment device 910 that includes detection circuitry and energy delivery circuitry for detecting cardiac activity and for performing various heart treatments, respectively, as described above. Cardiac treatment device 910 is coupled to subcutaneous electrode device 902 by a suitable connection interface 905. The connection interface 905 is preferably configured to facilitate connection and disconnection between the heart treatment device 910 and the conductors of the subcutaneous electrode device 902.
Although various components coupled to the heart treatment device are shown in FIG. 6, it should be understood that fewer, more or different components can be coupled to the heart treatment device 910. In addition, it should be understood that the various components shown as separate component blocks in FIG. 6 may instead represent functional features of a patient extracorporeal system that integrates such functions. A display 912 connected to the heart treatment device 910 is shown, which facilitates presentation of various types and formats of data (eg, text and / or graphical) for viewing by a patient, caregiver, or physician. .
An audio output device 914 can also be coupled to the heart treatment device 910. Heart sounds can be broadcast to, for example, a patient, caregiver, or doctor via an audio output device 914. As an example, heart sounds and cardiac electrophysiological data can be broadcast and presented to a patient, caregiver, or physician via an audio output device 914 and a display 912.
The external components of system 900 can also include user interface 916, which can take a wide variety of forms. The user interface 916 can be implemented with varying complexity, from relatively complex functions (eg, a programmer) to relatively simple functions (eg, a bedside console or patient activator device). The user interface 916 allows a patient, caregiver, or doctor to communicate with, interrogate, and / or interact with the cardiac therapy device 910 depending on the sophistication of the user interface 916. For example, the user interface 916 allows the patient to begin recording cardiac activity in an approximately loop recorder fashion. As a further example, the physician can query and / or program the cardiac therapy device 910 via the user interface 916.
The system 900 further includes an interface 918 configured to facilitate communication between the heart treatment device 910 and other systems such as a remote system, network or server system, or other local or remote system. Can be included. For example, interface 918 can facilitate the communication necessary to perform advanced patient management (APM) functions as described herein above.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of various components of a cardiac detection and treatment execution system according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7, the system 920 includes a number of patient internal components and a number of external patient components. In this embodiment, intra-patient and extra-patient components communicate with each other via a wireless connection such as a conventional RF link, Bluetooth link, communication protocol compliant with the IEEE 802 standard, or other form of communication link.
Patient body components of system 920 include at least one electrode device 922 configured for subcutaneous non-thoracic placement within the body. In this embodiment, a cardiac treatment device 930, such as an ITCS device of the type previously described, is configured for subcutaneous non-thoracic placement within the body and is coupled to a subcutaneous electrode device 922. Cardiac treatment device 930 includes detection circuitry and energy delivery circuitry for detecting cardiac activity, respectively, and for performing various cardiac treatments as described above. A communication device 940 is provided within the patient and is coupled to or incorporated into the heart treatment device 930. The communication device 940 is configured to facilitate wireless communication with the patient external system or device communication device 950, such as in the manner described above.
The subcutaneous electrode device 922 can be implemented as a composite electrode in or on the housing of the heart treatment device 930 (eg, an integrated housing such as an arcuate housing that generally matches the shape of the patient's thorax). The subcutaneous electrode device 922 can be implemented as a composite electrode subsystem separate from the housing of the heart treatment device 930 and can be coupled to the housing of the heart treatment device 930 via a lead or support system. Subcutaneous electrode device 922 can further be implemented as one or more body electrodes and one or more electrode subsystems that are separate from the body of heart treatment device 930. System 920 includes various other patient-external components, shown coupled to cardiac treatment device 930 via external communication device 950. It should be understood that fewer, more, or different components can be incorporated into the patient extracorporeal system communicatively coupled to the cardiac therapy device 930 via the external communication device 950.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the external communication device 950 is coupled to a display 952 that facilitates the visual presentation of various types and formats of data to a patient, caregiver, or physician. The external communication device 950 communicates with the audio output device 954, the user interface 956, and the heart treatment device 950 with other systems such as remote systems, network or server systems, or other local or remote systems (eg, APM systems). Can be coupled to an interface 958 configured to facilitate communication therebetween. It will be appreciated that the various components shown as separate component blocks in FIG. 7 can instead represent functional features of a patient extracorporeal system that integrates such functionality. In addition, it should be understood that the embodiments shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 can incorporate other sensors, such as non-electrophysiological sensors as described above.
Various modifications and additions can be made to the preferred embodiments described herein above without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited by the specific embodiments described above, but is defined only by the claims set forth in the claims and their equivalents.
1 is a diagram of a transthoracic heart sensing and / or stimulation device implanted in a patient according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a diagram of a transthoracic heart sensing and / or stimulation device implanted in a patient according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating various components of a transthoracic heart sensing and / or stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating various processing and detection components of a transthoracic heart sensing and / or stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows various components of a transthoracic heart sensing and / or stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows various components of a transthoracic heart sensing and / or stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows various components of a transthoracic heart sensing and / or stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 illustrates an electrode subsystem arrangement relative to the heart, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 illustrates an electrode subsystem arrangement relative to the heart, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 illustrates an electrode subsystem arrangement relative to the heart, according to an embodiment of the present invention. 3 is a flow chart describing various processes of a cardiac sensing and energy delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a flow chart describing various processes of a cardiac sensing and energy delivery method according to another embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram of various components of a heart detection and treatment execution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of various components of a heart detection and treatment execution system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
An energy delivery circuit capable of performing a plurality of cardiac therapies including at least a tachycardia therapy, a bradycardia therapy, and an anti-systole therapy
One or more electrodes configured for subcutaneous non-thoracic placement and coupled to the detection circuit and the energy delivery circuit;
A control device coupled to the detection circuit and the energy delivery circuit, wherein the tachycardia therapy, bradycardia therapy, and anti-systole therapy are selected in response to a cardiac condition that requires the selected therapy. A controller configured to coordinate one execution performed;
The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of cardiac therapies includes bradycardia pacing therapies.
The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of cardiac therapies includes a cardiac resynchronization therapy.
The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of cardiac therapies includes an anti-tachycardia pacing therapy.
The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of cardiac therapies includes a defibrillation therapy.
The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of heart therapies includes a heart rate smoothing pacing therapy.
The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of cardiac therapies include subthreshold stimulation therapies.
The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more electrodes are configured for cardiac pacing and sensing.
The system of claim 1, wherein the detection circuit, energy delivery circuit, and controller further comprise a housing disposed therein, the housing configured for external patient placement.
The system of claim 9, wherein the housing includes one or more electrodes coupled to the detection circuit and an energy delivery circuit.
The system of claim 9, further comprising one or more surface electrodes configured to couple to the detection circuit and energy delivery circuit.
The system of claim 9, further comprising a coupling device configured to couple or separate the one or more electrodes from the detection circuit and the energy delivery circuit.
The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the detection circuit, energy delivery circuit, and control device further comprises a housing disposed therein, the housing configured to be implanted in a patient.
The system of claim 13, wherein the one or more electrodes comprise at least one electrode disposed in or on the enclosure.
The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the detection circuit, energy delivery circuit, and controller further includes a housing disposed therein, the housing configured for subcutaneous non-thoracic placement.
The system of claim 15, wherein the one or more electrodes comprise at least one electrode disposed in or on the enclosure.
The system of claim 15, wherein the one or more electrodes are disposed within or on the housing to define a unitary structure.
The system of claim 17, wherein the housing is configured to have an arcuate shape.
The system of claim 15, wherein the one or more electrodes comprise at least one subcutaneous non-thoracic electrode array.
The system of claim 19, wherein the at least one subcutaneous non-thoracic electrode array is coupled to the rod via a lead.
The system of claim 1, wherein the anti-systole treatment performed by the energy delivery circuit comprises delivering pacing pulses at a rate that varies between about 2 to about 40 pulses per minute.
The system of claim 1, wherein the anti-systole treatment performed by the energy delivery circuit includes delivering pacing pulses at a rate insufficient to fully restore patient consciousness.
The system of claim 1, wherein the anti-systole treatment performed by the energy delivery circuit comprises delivering pacing pulses at a rate lower than a pacing rate associated with bradycardia treatment.
24. The system of claim 23, wherein the rate below the pacing rate is a fixed rate or a variable rate.
Means for sensing cardiac activity from a subcutaneous non-thoracic location;
Means for detecting a cardiac condition requiring treatment in response to sensed cardiac activity;
Means for performing one of a plurality of heart therapies to treat the detected heart condition, including at least tachycardia therapy, bradycardia therapy, and systolic dysfunction therapy;
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the plurality of heart therapies includes bradycardia pacing therapies.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the plurality of cardiac therapies includes a cardiac resynchronization therapy.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the plurality of cardiac therapies includes an anti-tachycardia pacing therapy.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the plurality of cardiac therapies includes a defibrillation therapy.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the plurality of heart therapies includes a heart rate smoothing pacing therapy.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the plurality of cardiac therapies include subthreshold stimulation therapies.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the detection means includes means for detecting a cardiac condition at a subcutaneous non-thoracic location.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the detection means includes means for detecting a cardiac condition at a location outside the patient.
26. The system of claim 25, further comprising means for supplying energy for the plurality of heart treatments from a patient external source.
26. The system of claim 25, further comprising means for supplying energy for the plurality of heart treatments from a subcutaneous non-thoracic source.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the execution means includes means for delivering a monophasic waveform.
26. The system of claim 25, wherein the execution means includes means for delivering a polyphasic waveform.
Detecting cardiac activity from a subcutaneous non-thoracic position;
Detecting a cardiac condition in need of treatment in response to sensed cardiac activity;
Performing one of a plurality of heart therapies to treat the detected cardiac condition, including at least a tachycardia therapy, a bradycardia therapy, and a systolic dysfunction therapy;
40. The method of claim 38, wherein the plurality of cardiac therapies include bradycardia pacing therapy, cardiac resynchronization pacing therapy, anti-tachycardia pacing therapy, defibrillation therapy, heart rate smoothing pacing therapy, or subthreshold stimulation therapy.
40. The method of claim 38, wherein detecting comprises detecting a cardiac condition at a subcutaneous non-thoracic location.
40. The method of claim 38, wherein the detecting comprises detecting a cardiac condition at a location outside the patient.
40. The method of claim 38, wherein energy for the plurality of heart treatments is provided from a patient external source.
40. The method of claim 38, wherein energy for the plurality of heart treatments is provided from a subcutaneous non-thoracic source.
40. The method of claim 38, wherein performing the plurality of cardiac therapies includes delivering a monophasic waveform or a polyphasic waveform.
JP2007507326A 2003-04-11 2005-03-14 Subcutaneous heart rhythm management Pending JP2007532178A (en)
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