Inductive coil apparatus for bio-medical telemetry

Abstract

An improved bio-medical telemetry apparatus for programming an implanted medical device includes a large substantially planar and concentrically wound first telemetry coil. The coil is disposed inside a thin flexible housing including layers of insulative materials to prevent electrical contact between loops of the first telemetry coil and to hold the first telemetry coil formed shape in place. The apparatus further includes a communication lead coupled to the first telemetry coil for communicating with a medical device programmer. During a telemetry session the first telemetry coil including the flexible housing is disposed at a posterior location of the torso and an implanted medical device disposed subcutaneously on an anterior location of the torso. During programming the first telemetry coil is inductively coupled to the implanted medical device for wireless data communication with the implanted medical device. The large, substantially planar design of the first telemetry coil permits more even and large flux paths, which allow for less precise positioning of the apparatus with respect to the implanted medical device. Also, the flexible housing conforms to irregular surface of patient's and supporting furnishing providing comfort to patients lying upon the first telemetry coil during telemetry sessions.