摘要 |
There is provided a system and method for determining the existence of metal ion oxidation degradation in an implanted pacing lead. A micro-vibration driver, preferably operating at a sonic frequency matched to an ultrasound detector, is used to vibrate the proximal end of a stylet that has been inserted into the lumen of a bipolar lead. The shaking of the stylet causes flexural waves to be propagated along the stylet, which in turn flex the lead inner conductor and the insulation between the inner and outer conductor. If metal ion oxidation is present in the insulation, the shaking causes generation of a noise signal which is detectable across the conductors along with the electrogram. The presence of such a noise signal is correlated with the output of the driver, i.e., with the vibration of the lead, to indicate when MIO degradation is present. An ultrasound imaging detector can be used to determine the location of the MIO degradation along the length of the lead. |