Importance

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Abstract

A controllable, wearable MRI-compatible, fixed-rate (VOO) pacemaker includes a self-contained steady state power source and an oscillator housed at the proximal end of a photonic catheter in a first enclosure. Continuous electrical energy is delivered from the power source and electrical pulses are delivered from the oscillator. The continuous electrical energy and electrical pulses are converted into respective continuous and pulsing light energy and directed into the proximal end of the photonic catheter. The photonic catheter includes optical conduction pathways and a covering of biocompatible material. Light entering the proximal end of the photonic catheter is transmitted through the optical conduction pathways, where it is collected and converted back to electrical energy at a second enclosure located at the distal end of the photonic catheter. The second enclosure houses a pulse generator power amplifier that is powered by the continuous electrical energy and triggered by the electrical pulses to periodically deliver electrical pulses to bipolar heart electrodes. One of the electrodes comprises the second enclosure housing the pulse generator and the other electrode is provided by another enclosure that is spaced from the second enclosure. The electrical pulses are delivered to the electrodes at an amplitude of about 3.3 volt and a current of about 3 milliamperes for a total pulse power output of about 10 milliwatts. The pulse rate and pulse duration may be varied.

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First Claim