Patent ID: 7590451

Claim:
An implantable medical device comprising: a connector header defining a first axial bore and comprising a stop surface within the first axial bore; and a series of electrical connector elements, fluid seals, and a locking device arranged in an axial stack mounted within the first axial bore, wherein the axial stack defines a second axial bore that extends through the electrical connector elements, fluid seals, and the locking device, wherein the second axial bore is configured to receive a proximal end of an implantable medical lead, wherein the locking device exerts a lateral force against the lead such that the proximal end of the lead substantially resists axial displacement under axial loading forces, wherein the locking device is positioned within the axial stack at a position distal to at least one of the electrical connector elements, wherein the first axial bore comprises an axial opening that is configured to axially receive the electrical connector elements, fluid seals, and locking device when the electrical connector elements, fluid seal, and locking device are axially inserted, wherein the locking device includes a flange that engages the stop surface to position the locking device, and wherein the locking device is electrically conductive and is disposed within the second axial bore at a position corresponding to an electrically conductive contact carried by the proximal end of the lead.