Importance

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Abstract

Implantable cardiac monitoring and stimulation devices and methods using cardiac leads employ coated fixation arrangements. The coating, such as an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, reduces exit block by reducing the tissue response to the fixation arrangement, decreasing the amount of fibrotic tissue, and reducing exit block. An epicardial lead may include a lead body with one or more electrical conductors with associated insulators and an electrode assembly situated at the distal end. The electrode assembly includes an electrode having an active fixation arrangement such as a helical fixation element. The fixation arrangement is completely or partially coated with a fluoropolymer or has a sleeve on some or all of the active fixation arrangement. The coating or sleeve may include a steroid or other pharmacological eluting arrangement disposed on the active fixation arrangement.

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First Claim