Method and apparatus for testing compatibility of lead polarity and polarity programming of a cardiac stimulator

摘要

A cardiac stimulation device includes a system for testing lead polarity and determining whether the programmed polarity configuration is compatible with an attached pacing and sensing lead. The lead polarity test is based on a measurement of lead impedance performed during the delivery of a pacing pulse. Since the polarity test consists of lead impedance measurements for all polarity configurations, including incompatible configurations, the system provides for backup pacing pulses in a safe configuration to assure pacing support of a patient during all cardiac cycles.