Craig Housworth

Title: Craig Housworth: Innovator in Implantable Medical Devices

Introduction

Craig Housworth is a notable inventor based in Lake Jackson, TX (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of medical technology, particularly in the development of implantable medical devices. His innovative work focuses on improving the functionality and effectiveness of devices that electrically stimulate the heart.

Latest Patents

Housworth holds a patent for a "Variable atrial blanking period in an implantable medical device." This invention pertains to an implantable medical device designed to electrically stimulate the heart to beat. The device includes a pulse generator, a logic and control unit, and an atrial sense circuit. The atrial sense circuit processes signals from electrodes implanted in the atrial chamber of the heart. It provides an atrial sense signal to the logic and control unit when the magnitude of electrical activity in the atria exceeds a threshold. The medical device is designed to pace the ventricles in response to detected electrical activity in the atria, which indicates atrial contraction.

Immediately following ventricular pacing, the device initiates an absolute atrial blanking period, followed by an atrial sensing period and a programmable blanking period. During both the absolute atrial blanking period and the programmable blanking period, atrial sensing is disabled. However, during the atrial sensing period, atrial sensing is enabled. The durations of the atrial sensing period and the programmable blanking period are programmable and can be adjusted noninvasively while the device is implanted. This innovative approach allows the device to monitor the atrial sense signal for normal atrial contractions effectively.

Career Highlights

Craig Housworth is associated with Sulzer Intermedics, Inc., where he has contributed to the advancement of medical device technology. His work has been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of devices that assist in cardiac function.

Collaborations

Housworth has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Andre G Routh and Annette Bruls, who have also contributed to the field of medical technology.

Conclusion

Craig Housworth's innovative contributions to implantable medical devices demonstrate his commitment to advancing healthcare technology. His patent for a variable atrial blanking period showcases his expertise and dedication to improving cardiac care.