Importance

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Abstract

A heart pacemaker system has an electrode line with a proximal end which is introduced into a connector of the pacemaker housing, and a distal end having an electrode head attachable to the heart of a user. One or more of the distal or proximal ends of the electrode line, the connector, or a region of the electrode line are provided with a component consisting of shape-memory metal. These components have a first shape at temperatures different from body temperature, and assume a second shape when at body temperature. The shape-memory metal component, if disposed at the proximal end of the electrode line or at the connector, is arrnaged to provide a firm mechanical and electrical connection of the electrode line with the pacemaker housing upon the change of shape of the component. The shape-memory metal component, if disposed at the distal end, is arranged to assist in providing, either directly or indirectly, a reliable, mechanical and electrical connection of the electrode line to the heart upon the change of shape of the component. The shape-memory metal component, if disposed in a region of the electrode line between the proximal and distal ends, assumes a first shape permitting easy introduction of the line through a vein, and a second shape after introduction, such as a curve.

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First Claim