Patent ID: 8725250

Claim:
An implantable device for delivering neurostimulation, comprising: a pulse generator for outputting neural stimulation pulses to one or more stimulation electrodes for delivering electrical stimulation to a selected neural site; a controller connected to the pulse generator for controlling the output of neural stimulation pulses in accordance with a defined schedule and in accordance with specified stimulation parameters; one or more sensing modalities for sensing a physiological variable reflective of a patient's autonomic balance; and, wherein the controller is programmed to adjust the amount of neurostimulation delivered in accordance with a determination of the patient's autonomic balance; and, wherein the controller is programmed to monitor the impedance of a lead connecting the stimulation electrode to the pulse generator by charging an output capacitor of the pulse generator to a specified voltage level, delivering a stimulation pulse, and measuring the time it takes for the capacitor voltage to decay by a specified amount.