FEEDTHROUGH CONNECTOR FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE

摘要

A feedthrough connector for a pacemaker, or other implantable medical device, combines the connector function with the feedthrough function and eliminates the need for the cast epoxy connector previously used on such devices. The feedthrough connector includes a barrel assembly (74) having an open end (78) and a closed end (76). The open end (78) of the assembly provides an opening into which the connecting end (62) of a pacemaker lead (64), or other electrical lead, can be slidably inserted. The barrel assembly (74) includes cylindrical metal (conductive) portions (80, 84) separated by cylindrical ceramic (nonconductive) insulating portions (82, 86). Spring contacts (90, 96) are mounted on the inside of the metal portions (80, 84) and are adapted to make electrical contact with the appropriate contacts of the pacemaker or other electrical lead (64) when the lead is inserted into the connector. During assembly of the pacemaker or other device, the barrel assembly (74) is fitted into an opening in the device housing (61) with its open end (78) being flush with the surface of the housing and the closed end (76) protruding into the housing. The outer side of the metal portions are electrically connected to the appropriate electrical circuit within the housing, and the open end (78) of the barrel assembly (74) is welded or otherwise bonded to the device housing (61) so that the inside of the device can be hermetically sealed. Releasable lead gripping means (70) are included as part of the barrel assembly (74) to detachably lock and seal the electrical lead (64) in its inserted position inside of the connector.