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Abstract

An implantable endocardial lead with retractable fixation apparatus. The fixation apparatus comprises a sharpened helix which can be repeatedly both retracted within an electrode at a distal end of the lead and displaced outside the electrode by action of a flexible, tubular lanyard. The lanyard passes through a lumen from a proximal end of the lead to the distal end of the lead, where the lanyard is attached to a piston supporting the helix. At the proximal end of the lead, a jig moves the lanyard with respect to a longitudinal axis of the lead. When the helix is in an exposed position, torque can be transmitted from the proximal end of the lead to the distal end thereof, through the electrode to the piston and then to the helix to screw the helix into the endocardial tissue. To stiffen the lead during implantation, a stylet can be inserted into a lumen in the lanyard.

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First Claim