Importance

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Abstract

A rate-responsive pacemaker includes a motion sensor mounted therein. The output signal from the motion sensor is a digital signal that can be connected directly to the digital processing and control circuits of the pacemaker in order to adjust its basic pacing rate as a function of the physical motion or activity that is sensed. The motion sensor includes an enclosed housing having a conductive element therein that partially fills the space of a cavity within the enclosed housing. The conductive element is free to roll, flow, or otherwise move around the inside of the housing in response to external forces. The external forces that cause the conductive element to move include the physical motion of the patient as well as the force of gravity. As the conductive element moves within the enclosed housing, it makes electrical contact with at least two of three electrodes that are selectively spaced around the inside periphery of the housing. By monitoring whether and for how long an electrical contact is made or broken between electrodes, a determination is thus made relative to the movement of the conductive element within the housing, and the rapidity with which such movement occurs. This sensed motion is directly related to the physical activity or movement of the patient. This signal is processed over time to determine whether and how the pacing rate of the pacemaker should be altered.

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First Claim