Importance

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Abstract

An electrode tip (14) of a tissue-stimulating lead provides active fixation of the tip of body tissue. Tissue attachment means (34), within the electrode tip, are selectively extended so as to protrude from the tip upon application of an external force. Otherwise, biasing means (40), also within the electrode tip, urge the tissue attachment means to a retracted position within the tip. Extension and retraction of the tissue attachment means are realized through the use of a carrier bobbin (44), to one end of which the tissue attachment means are affixed. The carrier bobbin is movably inserted into a barrel (30) of the tip. An O-ring (38) placed around the circumference of the carrier bobbin, sized so as to make sealable contact with the inside barrel wall, seals the back end of the barrel and prevents fluids from flowing therein. This O-ring also rolls along the surface of the carrier bobbin and barrel wall as the bobbin moves within the barrel, thereby reducing friction associated with the movement of the bobbin. The carrier bobbin moves to its extended position upon application of an axial force. This axial force is selectively supplied by a stylet (20) that passes through a lume (56) of the lead.

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First Claim