Importance

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Abstract

A system for detecting the position of a catheter in a patient includes three sets of excitation electrodes, with one set disposed in each of three intersecting axes. A signal processor measures a voltage indicative of impedance between a detection electrode disposed on the catheter and each of the three sets of excitation signals in order to determine the X coordinate, Y coordinate and Z coordinate of the catheter. The detected position of the catheter is recorded and the detection of subsequent catheter positions is performed relative to the recorded catheter position. The difference between subsequent catheter positions and the recorded position relative to the X, Y and Z axes is displayed in order to facilitate repositioning of the catheter at the recorded position. Excitation electrode embodiments utilizing as few as four excitation electrodes are disclosed. The excitation electrodes may be surface, subcutaneous or intracardiac electrodes.

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First Claim