Stimulation mode switching based on tissue impedance stability

摘要

Implantable medical devices switch from a constant current mode of operation to a constant voltage mode of operation. The switching may be based on the device determining that tissue impedance stability has occurred. The determination may be a measurement of output voltage stability of the constant current source or based on other factors such as an amount of time that has elapsed. The switching may be as the result of an externally generated request such as by a clinician via an external device. The implantable medical device may begin constant voltage mode by utilizing stimulation parameters based on those initially programmed for constant current mode and based upon a measurement of voltage amplitude being output by the constant current source prior to the switch.

主权项

1. A method of providing stimulation therapy, comprising:
while stimulation signals are being output from a constant current source of an implantable medical device to leads coupled to the implantable medical device, detecting by the implantable medical device, prior to switching to a constant voltage source, that at least one criterion related to tissue impedance stability has been met; and upon detecting by the implantable medical device that the at least one criterion has been met, then switching from the constant current source to the constant voltage source of the implantable medical device to output stimulation signals from the constant voltage source to the leads coupled to the implantable medical device.