Delivery systems and methods for position pre-check and atraumatic implantation of a cardiac pacing lead

Abstract

A novel delivery system for implantation of a cardiac pacing lead comprising an elongated delivery sheath sized to accept the cardiac pacing lead inside thereof and an electrically-active elongated stylet positioned along the cardiac pacing lead and having a first distal electrode configured to provide a first electrical connection to the proximal end of the elongated stylet. The implantation method includes a step of pre-checking a first position in the cardiac tissue by temporarily confirming the ability to deliver the pacing therapy at that position using the first distal electrode of the elongated stylet. If the first position is determined to be acceptable, the cardiac pacing lead is implanted at that position. Otherwise, the delivery system is moved to another position without any significant trauma to the cardiac tissue at the first position.