Cardiodynamics International Corporation

James O Elf

Gail Dawn Baura

Dennis G Hepp

Jeremy Malecha

Sau Kuen Ng

An improved apparatus and method for determining the cardiac output of a living subject. The improved apparatus generally comprises one or more electrode assemblies or patches affixed to the skin of the subject in the vicinity of the thoracic cavity. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a constant current source impedance cardiography (ICG) monitor adapted as a stand-alone system. In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a module adapted for use with a host monitoring system, the latter providing ECG, blood pressure, and/or other inputs to the module. Method of detecting a loss of electrical continuity in one or more of the terminals of the electrode patch, and selecting between a plurality of signal inputs based on signal quality, are also disclosed.

Apparatus and method for determining cardiac output in a living subject

An improved apparatus and method for determining the cardiac output of a living subject. The improved apparatus generally comprises one or more electrode assemblies or patches affixed to the skin of the subject in the vicinity of the thoracic cavity. The terminals of each electrode patch are in contact with an electrolytic gel, and are spaced a predetermined distance from one another within the patch. This predetermined spacing allows for more consistent measurements, and also allows for the detection of a loss of electrical continuity between the terminals of the patch and their associated electrical connectors in the clinical environment. The method generally comprises generating and passing a stimulation current through the terminals and the thoracic cavity of the subject, and measuring the impedance as a function of time. This impedance is used to determine cardiac muscle stroke volume, which is then used in conjunction with the subject's cardiac rate (also detected via the electrode patches) to determine cardiac output. A method of detecting a loss of electrical continuity in one or more of the terminals of the electrode patch is also disclosed.

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San Diego, CA, United States of America

James O Elf