Importance

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Abstract

A probe for electrocardial stimulation includes a catheter-like conduit for insertion into a patient's esophagus. The conduit has openings which are spaced apart at two longitudinal locations which are closely adjacent to the patient's heart when the probe is positioned in the esophagus. The openings pick up heart sounds and transmit them to the interior of the conduit for communication to the proximal end of the probe, where they can be monitored by attending personnel. Two electrodes are spaced apart longitudinally between and in fixed relation to the openings, so as to position the electrodes accurately relative to the heart based upon heart sounds transmitted through the openings. Other functions, such as a temperature sensor or stomach feeding or pumping capability may also be provided inside the conduit.

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First Claim