Body-implantable lead with protected, extendable tissue securing means

Abstract

A body-implantable, lead affixed with a pin or pins at its proximal end adapted to be connected to a pulse generator and with an electrode or electrodes at its distal end electrically connected via conductor means and adapted to be securely and permanently attached to a body organ. Electrode means in the form of an elongated member having a circumferential electrode formed on one end thereof and an opening passing therethrough from its proximal to distal end is affixed to the distal end of the conductor means. Tissue securing means are located within a chamber beyond the opening of the electrode body to protect body tissue while the lead is being moved to the desired location. The tissue securing means is then extendable out of the distal end of the electrode means to secure the electrode means in firm engagement with body tissue at the desired location. The lead may be adapted so that the tissue securing means can be automatically actuated to cause the tissue securing means to be secured into the tissue at the desired location in a predetermined manner.