Patent ID: 8401649

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, and wherein the locking device includes a flange that engages the stop surface within the connector header to position the locking device.