SYSTEMS FOR STIMULATION OF THE CHOLINERGIC ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PATHWAY VIA A SUPERIOR VENA CAVA LEAD

摘要

Described herein are devices, systems and methods for stimulation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP). In particular the devices and systems described herein are for intravascular stimulation of the CAP via the right vagus nerve by stimulating through the superior vena cava with minimal cardiac side effects. The systems described herein typically include one or more electrode leads configured to stimulate the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (e.g., the vagus nerve) from a position within the patient's superior vena cava (SVC). The lead may include one or more electrodes and an anchor for securing the lead. The system may also include an implantable therapy administrator ("ITA") to which the lead may be connected. The ITA may be configured as a controller for controlling the stimulation applied. These devices and/or systems may also be referred to as "immune system pacemakers".