Patent ID: 8255048

Claim:
A system for controlled commutation of multiplexed electrodes for an active implantable medical device, comprising a lead comprising electrodes adapted to be multiplexed and for sensing/pacing; at least one proximal terminal and/or distal terminal; a plurality of electrode terminals, wherein each electrode terminal is respectively coupled to an electrode adapted to be multiplexed and for sensing/pacing of the lead; a plurality of switches, wherein each switch has a closed position, in which a corresponding electrode terminal is connected to the proximal terminal and/or distal terminal, and an open position, in which a corresponding electrode terminal is isolated from the proximal terminal and/or distal terminal; and command means, comprising means for: receiving a modulated signal from a generator at the proximal terminal and/or the distal terminal, wherein the modulated signal comprises a coded series of logic pulses and a micropulse and contains switch configuration information of the plurality of switches; decoding the modulated signal to actuate the plurality of switches corresponding to a configuration of closed or open positions as identified by the modulated signal; detecting the micropulse within the received modulated signal, wherein the micropulse precedes the coded series, of logic pulses and has an amplitude and duration lower than the amplitude and duration of each of the coded series of logic pulses; and actuating, in response to the micropulse, the plurality of switches being in an open position over a duration at least equal to the duration of receiving the coded series of logic pulses.