US6328699B1
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Permanently implantable system and method for detecting, diagnosing and treating congestive heart failure
Assignee: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
•
Filing: 2000-01-11
•
Granted: 2001-12-11
•
Expires: 2020-01-11
Abstract
Abstract The invention provides improved apparatus and methods for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient. The apparatus includes a pressure transducer permanently implantable within the left atrium of the patient's heart and operable to generate electrical signals indicative of fluid pressures within the patient's left atrium. The pressure transducer is connected to a flexible electrical lead, which is connected in turn to electrical circuitry, which in the preferred embodiment includes digital circuitry for processing electrical signals. The electrical circuitry processes the electrical signals from the pressure transducer and, based at least in part on those signals, generates a signal that indicates a desired therapeutic treatment for treating the patient's condition. That signal is then communicated to the patient via a patient signaling device, following which the patient administers to him or herself the prescribed therapeutic treatment indicated by the signal.
Inventors
- 👤 Neal L. Eigler
- 👤 James S. Whiting
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-26 11:17
CPC Classifications
A; A61; A61B; A61B5/00; A61B5/02; A61B5/021; A61B5/0215; A61B5/48; A61B5/4836; A61B5/4839; A61B5/68; A61B5/6846; A61B5/6879; A61B5/6882; A61N; A61N1/00; A61N1/18; A61N1/32; A61N1/36; A61N1/362; A61N1/365; A61N1/36514; A61N1/36564; A61B2560/00; A61B2560/02; A61B2560/0204; A61B2560/0209; A61N1/3627
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 180
Claim 1
Independent Claim
105 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least two distinct signals distinguishable from one another by the patient, each said signal indicative of a different therapeutic treatment.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
105 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least two distinct signals distinguishable from one another by the patient, each said signal indicative of a different therapeutic treatment.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
25 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the pressure transducer and the signal processing apparatus.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
22 words
The apparatus of claim 2 , further comprising apparatus on the lead configured to anchor pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
60 words
The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the pressure transducer is located on the lead a predetermined distance away from a distal tip of the lead, wherein the distance is predetermined so that the pressure transducer will be positioned within the patient's left atrium when the distal tip is positioned within a pulmonary vein connected to the patient's left atrium.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
64 words
The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the lead comprises a first lead component carrying apparatus configured to anchor the first lead component to the patient's atrial septum and a second lead component carrying the pressure transducer, wherein the second lead component is implantable into the patient and fixable to the first lead component after the first lead component is implanted within the patient.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
37 words
The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the apparatus on the lead configured to anchor the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum comprises a helical screw configured for advancement into and fixation within the atrial septum.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
43 words
The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the apparatus on the lead configured to anchor the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum comprises at least one anchor deployable by spring force upon the withdrawal of a removable sheath to expose the anchor.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
29 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the signal processing apparatus is at least partially contained within a housing, the housing configured for permanent implantation within the patient's body.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
20 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising apparatus configured to anchor the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
36 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the signal processing apparatus includes an analog-to-digital converter operable to convert analog signals from the pressure transducer to digital data reflective of the fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
24 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the signal processing apparatus includes digital memory for storing data reflective of pressures within the left atrium.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
25 words
The apparatus of claim 11 , further comprising apparatus configured to retrieve the data reflective of pressures within the left atrium from the digital memory.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
23 words
The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the data retrieval apparatus includes a transceiver operable to transmit the data through the patient's skin.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
27 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the signal processing apparatus is operable to receive modified programming with the signal processing apparatus implanted within the patient's body.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
23 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the patient signaling device includes apparatus configured to produce an electrical shock perceptible by the patient.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
36 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least four distinct signals distinguishable from one another by the patient, each said signal indicative of a different therapeutic treatment.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
16 words
An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer is situated within the left atrium.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
16 words
An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer is situated within a pulmonary vein.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
17 words
An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer is situated within the left atrial appendage.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
16 words
An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer is located in the septal wall.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
35 words
An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer is situated at a location within the heart having a pressure that is at least nearly the same as the pressure in the left atrium.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer is situated at a location within the heart sufficient to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer is situated at a location outside the heart sufficient to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
32 words
An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer is situated at a location relative to the heart sufficient to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
33 words
An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer is associated with the heart in a manner that is sufficient to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
69 words
An The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a second sensor in addition to the pressure transducer, the second sensor operable to generate a second signal indicative of a second condition within the body of the patient, wherein the signal processing apparatus is operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the second signal generated by the sound sensor.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
15 words
The apparatus of claim 26 , wherein the second sensor is a second pressure transducer.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 26 , wherein the second sensor is an ECG electrode.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
19 words
The apparatus of claim 26 , wherein the second sensor is configured for implantation in the patient's right atrium.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
24 words
The apparatus of claim 26 , wherein the second sensor is configured for implantation in a location inside the patient's body outside the atria.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
24 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the patient signaling device includes a mechanical vibrator operable to produce a vibration perceptible by the patient.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
22 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the patient signaling device includes a transmitter operable to send information to a remote receiver.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
39 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the signal processing apparatus includes power management circuitry operable to deny power to at least some portions of the signal processing apparatus during periods of relative inactivity between periods of device operation.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
30 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the signal processing apparatus includes apparatus operable to compute mean left atrial pressures based on multiple individual signals generated by the pressure transducer.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
41 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least one signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment comprising a reduction in the normal dose of at least one medication taken by the patient.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
31 words
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the patient signal device generates signals in the form of predetermined sequences of individual signal pulses, the signal pulses being perceptible by the patient.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
122 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the pressure transducer and the signal processing apparatus; and apparatus on the lead configured to anchor the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum comprising a helical screw configured for advancement into and fixation within the atrial septum.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
122 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the pressure transducer and the signal processing apparatus; and apparatus on the lead configured to anchor the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum comprising a helical screw configured for advancement into and fixation within the atrial septum.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
127 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the pressure transducer and the signal processing apparatus; and apparatus on the lead configured to anchor the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum comprising at least one anchor deployable by spring force upon the withdrawal of a removable sheath to expose the anchor.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
127 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the pressure transducer and the signal processing apparatus; and apparatus on the lead configured to anchor the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum comprising at least one anchor deployable by spring force upon the withdrawal of a removable sheath to expose the anchor.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
146 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the pressure transducer and the signal processing apparatus, wherein the pressure transducer is located on the lead a predetermined distance away from a distal tip of the lead, wherein the distance is predetermined so that the pressure transducer will be positioned within the patient's left atrium when the distal tip is positioned within a pulmonary vein connected to the patient's left atrium.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
146 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the pressure transducer and the signal processing apparatus, wherein the pressure transducer is located on the lead a predetermined distance away from a distal tip of the lead, wherein the distance is predetermined so that the pressure transducer will be positioned within the patient's left atrium when the distal tip is positioned within a pulmonary vein connected to the patient's left atrium.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
149 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the pressure transducer and the signal processing apparatus, wherein the lead comprises a first lead component carrying apparatus configured to anchor the first lead component to the patient's atrial septum and a second lead component carrying the pressure transducer, wherein the second lead component is implantable into the patient and fixable to the first lead component after the first lead component is implanted within the patient.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
149 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the pressure transducer and the signal processing apparatus, wherein the lead comprises a first lead component carrying apparatus configured to anchor the first lead component to the patient's atrial septum and a second lead component carrying the pressure transducer, wherein the second lead component is implantable into the patient and fixable to the first lead component after the first lead component is implanted within the patient.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
135 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and a second sensor in addition to the pressure transducer, the second sensor operable to generate a second signal indicative of a second condition within the body of the patient, wherein the signal processing apparatus is operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the second signal generated by the second sensor.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
135 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and a second sensor in addition to the pressure transducer, the second sensor operable to generate a second signal indicative of a second condition within the body of the patient, wherein the signal processing apparatus is operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the second signal generated by the second sensor.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
15 words
The apparatus of claim 41 , wherein the second sensor is a second pressure transducer.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 41 , wherein the second sensor is an ECG electrode.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
19 words
The apparatus of claim 41 , wherein the second sensor is configured for implantation in the patient's right atrium.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
24 words
The apparatus of claim 41 , wherein the second sensor is configured for implantation in a location inside the patient's body outside the atria.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
127 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; wherein the signal processing apparatus includes digital memory for storing data reflective of pressures within the left atrium; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and apparatus configured to retrieve the data reflective of pressures within the left atrium from the digital memory, wherein the data retrieval apparatus includes a transceiver operable to transmit the data through the patient's skin.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
127 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; wherein the signal processing apparatus includes digital memory for storing data reflective of pressures within the left atrium; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and apparatus configured to retrieve the data reflective of pressures within the left atrium from the digital memory, wherein the data retrieval apparatus includes a transceiver operable to transmit the data through the patient's skin.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
93 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signaling device includes a mechanical vibrator operable to produce a vibration perceptible by the patient.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
93 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signaling device includes a mechanical vibrator operable to produce a vibration perceptible by the patient.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
91 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signaling device includes a transmitter operable to send information to a remote receiver.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
91 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signaling device includes a transmitter operable to send information to a remote receiver.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
108 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer, wherein the signal processing apparatus includes power management circuitry operable to deny power to at least some portions of the signal processing apparatus during periods of relative inactivity between periods of device operation; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
108 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer, wherein the signal processing apparatus includes power management circuitry operable to deny power to at least some portions of the signal processing apparatus during periods of relative inactivity between periods of device operation; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
99 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer, wherein the signal processing apparatus includes apparatus operable to compute mean left atrial pressures based on multiple individual signals generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
99 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer, wherein the signal processing apparatus includes apparatus operable to compute mean left atrial pressures based on multiple individual signals generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
110 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least one signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment comprising a reduction in the normal dose of at least one medication taken by the patient.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
110 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least one signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment comprising a reduction in the normal dose of at least one medication taken by the patient.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
100 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signal device generates signals in the form of predetermined sequences of individual signal pulses, the signal pulses being perceptible by the patient.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
100 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: a pressure transducer operable to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the pressure transducer; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signal device generates signals in the form of predetermined sequences of individual signal pulses, the signal pulses being perceptible by the patient.
Claim 66
Independent Claim
112 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment, wherein operating the signal processing apparatus includes generating one of at least two distinct signals, each said signal indicative of a different therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 67
Independent Claim
112 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment, wherein operating the signal processing apparatus includes generating one of at least two distinct signals, each said signal indicative of a different therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 53 , and further comprising implanting at least a portion of the signal processing apparatus substantially permanently within the patient's body.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method of claim 53 , and further comprising anchoring the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
32 words
The method of claim 55 , wherein implanting the signal processing apparatus within the patient's body includes implanting the signal processing apparatus a subcutaneous pocket in the region of the patient's shoulder.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method of claim 55 , wherein anchoring the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum comprises advancing a helical screw into the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
37 words
The method of claim 55 , wherein anchoring the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum comprises withdrawing a removable sheath to deploy at least one anchor by spring force to bear against the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method of claim 53 , and further comprising implanting the signal processing apparatus within the patient's body.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment includes generating an electrical shock perceptible by the patient.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
33 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein generating one of at least two distinct signals, each said signal indicative of a different therapeutic treatment, includes generating one of at least four distinct signals.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
16 words
A apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein the transducer is situated within the left atrium.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
16 words
An apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein the transducer is situated within a pulmonary vein.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
17 words
An apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein the transducer is situated within the left atrial appendage.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
16 words
An apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein the transducer is located in the septal wall.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
35 words
An apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein the transducer is situated at a location within the heart having a pressure that is at least nearly the same as the pressure in the left atrium.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
15 words
An apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein the transducer is situated within the heart.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
16 words
An apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein the transducer is situated outside of the heart.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
33 words
An apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein the transducer is associated with the heart in a manner that is sufficient to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
16 words
A apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein the transducer is situated within the left atrium.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein implanting a pressure transducer within the left atrium of the patient's heart comprises: approaching the left atrium through the right atrium; penetrating the patient's atrial septum; and positioning the pressure transducer in side the patient's left atrium.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method of claim 71 , and further comprising approaching the right atrium through the superior vena cava.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method of claim 71 , and further comprising approaching the right atrium through the inferior vena cava.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
49 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein implanting the pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart includes advancing a flexible lead carrying the pressure transducer partially into a pulmonary vein connected to the left atrium while positioning the pressure transducer within the left atrium.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
85 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein implanting the pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart includes: advancing a first lead component carrying anchoring apparatus to the left atrium and deploying the anchoring apparatus to anchor the first lead component to the patient's atrial septum; and advancing a second lead component carrying a pressure transducer along the first lead component until the second lead component is in a position wherein the pressure transducer is positioned within the patient's left atrium.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment includes operating a mechanical vibrator to produce a vibration perceptible by the patient.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment includes operating a transmitter to send information to a remote receiver.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
43 words
The method of claim 53 , further comprising operating power management circuitry to deny power to at least some portions of the signal processing apparatus during periods of relative inactivity between periods of active operation of those portions of the signal processing apparatus.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
38 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment includes computing mean left atrial pressures based on multiple individual signals generated by the pressure transducer.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
48 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment includes generating a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment comprising a reduction in the normal dose of at least one medication taken by the patient.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
38 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient includes communicating to the patient at least one predetermined sequence comprising multiple individual signal pulses perceptible by the patient.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
31 words
The method of claim 53 , wherein operating wherein operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment includes diagnosing a cause of worsening CHF.
Claim 97
Independent Claim
126 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart, wherein implanting the pressure transducer within the left atrium of the patient's heart comprises: approaching the left atrium through the right atrium; penetrating the patient's atrial septum; and positioning the pressure transducer in side the patient's left atrium; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 98
Independent Claim
126 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart, wherein implanting the pressure transducer within the left atrium of the patient's heart comprises: approaching the left atrium through the right atrium; penetrating the patient's atrial septum; and positioning the pressure transducer in side the patient's left atrium; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method of claim 83 , and further comprising approaching the right atrium through the superior vena cava.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method of claim 83 , and further comprising approaching the right atrium through the inferior vena cava.
Claim 101
Independent Claim
107 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and anchoring the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum, by advancing a helical screw into the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 102
Independent Claim
107 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and anchoring the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum, by advancing a helical screw into the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 103
Independent Claim
118 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and withdrawing a removable sheath to deploy at least one anchor by spring force to bear against the patient's atrial septum, thereby anchoring the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 104
Independent Claim
118 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and withdrawing a removable sheath to deploy at least one anchor by spring force to bear against the patient's atrial septum, thereby anchoring the pressure transducer to the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 105
Independent Claim
119 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart, wherein said implanting includes advancing a flexible lead carrying the pressure transducer partially into a pulmonary vein connected to the left atrium while positioning the pressure transducer within the left atrium; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 106
Independent Claim
119 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart, wherein said implanting includes advancing a flexible lead carrying the pressure transducer partially into a pulmonary vein connected to the left atrium while positioning the pressure transducer within the left atrium; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 107
Independent Claim
155 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart, wherein said implanting includes: advancing a first lead component carrying anchoring apparatus to the left atrium and deploying the anchoring apparatus to anchor the first lead component to the patient's atrial septum; and advancing a second lead component carrying a pressure transducer along the first lead component until the second lead component is in a position wherein the pressure transducer is positioned within the patient's left atrium; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 108
Independent Claim
155 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart, wherein said implanting includes: advancing a first lead component carrying anchoring apparatus to the left atrium and deploying the anchoring apparatus to anchor the first lead component to the patient's atrial septum; and advancing a second lead component carrying a pressure transducer along the first lead component until the second lead component is in a position wherein the pressure transducer is positioned within the patient's left atrium; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 109
Independent Claim
104 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein said communicating includes operating a mechanical vibrator to produce a vibration perceptible by the patient.
Claim 110
Independent Claim
104 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein said communicating includes operating a mechanical vibrator to produce a vibration perceptible by the patient.
Claim 111
Independent Claim
102 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein said communicating includes operating a transmitter to send information to a remote receiver.
Claim 112
Independent Claim
102 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein said communicating includes operating a transmitter to send information to a remote receiver.
Claim 113
Independent Claim
123 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and operating power management circuitry to deny power to at least some portions of the signal processing apparatus during periods of relative inactivity between periods of active operation of those portions of the signal processing apparatus.
Claim 114
Independent Claim
123 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and operating power management circuitry to deny power to at least some portions of the signal processing apparatus during periods of relative inactivity between periods of active operation of those portions of the signal processing apparatus.
Claim 115
Independent Claim
107 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment, wherein said operating includes computing mean left atrial pressures based on multiple individual signals generated by the pressure transducer; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 116
Independent Claim
107 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment, wherein said operating includes computing mean left atrial pressures based on multiple individual signals generated by the pressure transducer; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 117
Independent Claim
117 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment, wherein said operating includes generating a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment comprising a reduction in the normal dose of at least one medication taken by the patient; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 118
Independent Claim
117 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment, wherein said operating includes generating a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment comprising a reduction in the normal dose of at least one medication taken by the patient; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 119
Independent Claim
111 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein communicating the signal includes communicating to the patient at least one predetermined sequence comprising multiple individual signal pulses perceptible by the patient.
Claim 120
Independent Claim
111 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein communicating the signal includes communicating to the patient at least one predetermined sequence comprising multiple individual signal pulses perceptible by the patient.
Claim 121
Independent Claim
101 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment, wherein operating the signal processing apparatus includes diagnosing a cause of worsening CHF; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 122
Independent Claim
101 words
A method for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the method comprising: implanting a pressure transducer substantially permanently within the left atrium of the patient's heart; operating the pressure transducer to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; communicating the signal indicative of the fluid pressure within the left atrium to signal processing apparatus; operating the signal processing apparatus to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment, wherein operating the signal processing apparatus includes diagnosing a cause of worsening CHF; and communicating the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
103 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least two distinct signals distinguishable from one another by the patient, each said signal indicative of a different therapeutic treatment.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
103 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient, wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least two distinct signals distinguishable from one another by the patient, each said signal indicative of a different therapeutic treatment.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
15 words
An apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein the indicator means is a pressure transducer.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
17 words
A apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein the indicator means is situated within the left atrium.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
17 words
An apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein the indicator means is situated within a pulmonary vein.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
18 words
An apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein the indicator means is situated within the left atrial appendage.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
17 words
An apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein the indicator means is located in the septal wall.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
36 words
An apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein the indicator means is situated at a location within the heart having a pressure that is at least nearly the same as the pressure in the left atrium.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
32 words
An apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein the indicator means is situated at a location within the heart sufficient to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
32 words
An apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein the indicator means is situated at a location outside the heart sufficient to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
33 words
An apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein the indicator means is situated at a location relative to the heart sufficient to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
34 words
An apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein the indicator means is associated with the heart in a manner that is sufficient to generate a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
25 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , further comprising an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the indicator means and the signal processing apparatus.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
20 words
The apparatus of claim 108 , further comprising apparatus configured to anchor the indicator means to the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
60 words
The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the indicator means is located on the lead a predetermined distance away from a distal tip of the lead, wherein the distance is predetermined so that the indicator means will be positioned within the patient's left atrium when the distal tip is positioned within a pulmonary vein connected to the patient's left atrium.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
65 words
The apparatus of claim 108 , wherein the lead comprises a first lead component carrying apparatus configured to anchor the first lead component to the patient's atrial septum and a second lead component carrying the indicator means, wherein the second lead component is implantable into the patient and fixable to the first 5 lead component after the first lead component is implanted within the patient.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
23 words
The apparatus of claim 109 , further comprising apparatus on the lead configured to anchor the indicator means to the patient's atrial septum.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
34 words
The apparatus of claim 69 , wherein the apparatus configured to anchor the indicator means to the patient's atrial septum comprises a helical screw configured for advancement into and fixation within the atrial septum.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
43 words
The apparatus of claim 69 , wherein the apparatus on the lead configured to anchor the indicator means to the patient's atrial septum comprises at least one anchor deployable by spring force upon the withdrawal of a removable sheath to expose the anchor.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
29 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the signal processing apparatus is at least partially contained within a housing, the housing configured for permanent implantation within the patient's body.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim
36 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the signal processing apparatus includes an analog-to-digital converter operable to convert analog signals from the indicator means to digital data reflective of the fluid pressure within the left atrium.
Claim 144
Dependent Claim
24 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the signal processing apparatus includes digital memory for storing data reflective of pressures within the left atrium.
Claim 145
Dependent Claim
25 words
The apparatus of claim 117 , further comprising apparatus configured to retrieve the data reflective of pressures within the left atrium from the digital memory.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim
23 words
The apparatus of claim 118 , wherein the data retrieval apparatus includes a transceiver operable to transmit the data through the patient's skin.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
27 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the signal processing apparatus is operable to receive modified programming with the signal processing apparatus implanted within the patient's body.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
24 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the patient signaling device includes a mechanical vibrator operable to produce a vibration perceptible by the patient.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
23 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the patient signaling device includes apparatus configured to produce an electrical shock perceptible by the patient.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
36 words
The apparatus of claim 69 , wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least four distinct signals distinguishable from one another by the patient, each said signal indicative of a different therapeutic treatment.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim
31 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the patient signal device generates signals in the form of predetermined sequences of individual signal pulses, the signal pulses being perceptible by the patient.
Claim 152
Dependent Claim
68 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , further comprising a second sensor in addition to the indicator means, the second sensor operable to generate a second signal indicative of a second condition within the body of the patient, wherein the signal processing apparatus is operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the second signal generated by the second sends.
Claim 153
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the patient signaling device includes a transmitter operable to send information to remote receiver.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim
39 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the signal processing apparatus includes power management circuitry operable to deny power to at least some portions of the signal processing apparatus during periods of relative inactivity between periods of device operation.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim
30 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the signal processing apparatus includes apparatus operable to compute mean left atrial pressures based on multiple individual signals generated by the indicator means.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim
41 words
The apparatus of claim 97 , wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least one signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment comprising a reduction in the normal dose of at least one medication taken by the patient.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim
120 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the indicator means and the signal processing apparatus; and apparatus configured to anchor the indicator means to the patient's atrial septum, wherein the apparatus comprises a helical screw configured for advancement into and fixation within the atrial septum.
Claim 158
Dependent Claim
120 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the indicator means and the signal processing apparatus; and apparatus configured to anchor the indicator means to the patient's atrial septum, wherein the apparatus comprises a helical screw configured for advancement into and fixation within the atrial septum.
Claim 159
Dependent Claim
126 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the indicator means and the signal processing apparatus; and apparatus configured to anchor the indicator means to the patient's atrial septum, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one anchor deployable by spring force upon the withdrawal of a removable sheath to expose the anchor.
Claim 160
Dependent Claim
126 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the indicator means and the signal processing apparatus; and apparatus configured to anchor the indicator means to the patient's atrial septum, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one anchor deployable by spring force upon the withdrawal of a removable sheath to expose the anchor.
Claim 161
Dependent Claim
144 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium, wherein the indicator means is located on the lead a predetermined distance away from a distal tip of the lead, wherein the distance is predetermined so that the indicator means will be positioned within the patient's left atrium when the distal tip is positioned within a pulmonary vein connected to the patient's left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the indicator means and the signal processing apparatus.
Claim 162
Dependent Claim
144 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium, wherein the indicator means is located on the lead a predetermined distance away from a distal tip of the lead, wherein the distance is predetermined so that the indicator means will be positioned within the patient's left atrium when the distal tip is positioned within a pulmonary vein connected to the patient's left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the indicator means and the signal processing apparatus.
Claim 163
Dependent Claim
149 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the indicator means and the signal processing apparatus, wherein the lead comprises a first lead component carrying apparatus configured to anchor the first lead component to the patient's atrial septum and a second lead component carrying the indicator means, wherein the second lead component is implantable into the patient and fixable to the first lead component after the first lead component is implanted within the patient.
Claim 164
Dependent Claim
149 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and an implantable flexible lead providing a signal connection between the indicator means and the signal processing apparatus, wherein the lead comprises a first lead component carrying apparatus configured to anchor the first lead component to the patient's atrial septum and a second lead component carrying the indicator means, wherein the second lead component is implantable into the patient and fixable to the first lead component after the first lead component is implanted within the patient.
Claim 165
Dependent Claim
134 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and a second sensor in addition to the indicator means, the second sensor operable to generate a second signal indicative of a second condition within the body of the patient, wherein the signal processing apparatus is operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the second signal generated by the second sensor.
Claim 166
Dependent Claim
134 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; and a second sensor in addition to the indicator means, the second sensor operable to generate a second signal indicative of a second condition within the body of the patient, wherein the signal processing apparatus is operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the second signal generated by the second sensor.
Claim 167
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 134 , wherein the second sensor is a pressure transducer.
Claim 168
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 134 , wherein the second sensor is an ECG electrode.
Claim 169
Dependent Claim
19 words
The apparatus of claim 134 , wherein the second sensor is configured for implantation in the patient's right atrium.
Claim 170
Dependent Claim
24 words
The apparatus of claim 134 , wherein the second sensor is configured for implantation in a location inside the patient's body outside the atria.
Claim 171
Dependent Claim
125 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means, wherein the signal processing apparatus includes digital memory for storing data reflective of pressures within the left atrium; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; apparatus configured to retrieve the data reflective of pressures within the left atrium from the digital memory; and wherein the data retrieval apparatus includes a transceiver operable to transmit the data through the patient's skin.
Claim 172
Dependent Claim
125 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means, wherein the signal processing apparatus includes digital memory for storing data reflective of pressures within the left atrium; a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; apparatus configured to retrieve the data reflective of pressures within the left atrium from the digital memory; and wherein the data retrieval apparatus includes a transceiver operable to transmit the data through the patient's skin.
Claim 173
Dependent Claim
89 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; wherein the patient signaling device includes a transmitter operable to send information to a remote receiver.
Claim 174
Dependent Claim
89 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient; wherein the patient signaling device includes a transmitter operable to send information to a remote receiver.
Claim 175
Dependent Claim
106 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means, wherein the signal processing apparatus includes power management circuitry operable to deny power to at least some portions of the signal processing apparatus during periods of relative inactivity between periods of device operation; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 176
Dependent Claim
106 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means, wherein the signal processing apparatus includes power management circuitry operable to deny power to at least some portions of the signal processing apparatus during periods of relative inactivity between periods of device operation; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 177
Dependent Claim
97 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means, wherein the signal processing apparatus includes apparatus operable to compute mean left atrial pressures based on multiple individual signals generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 178
Dependent Claim
97 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means, wherein the signal processing apparatus includes apparatus operable to compute mean left atrial pressures based on multiple individual signals generated by the indicator means; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 179
Dependent Claim
108 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means, wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least one signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment comprising a reduction in the normal dose of at least one medication taken by the patient; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
Claim 180
Dependent Claim
108 words
Apparatus for treating congestive heart failure in a medical patient, the apparatus comprising: indicator means for generating a signal indicative of fluid pressure within the left atrium; signal processing apparatus operable to generate a signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment based at least in part on the signal generated by the indicator means, wherein the patient signaling device is operable to generate at least one signal indicative of an appropriate therapeutic treatment comprising a reduction in the normal dose of at least one medication taken by the patient; and a patient signaling device operable to communicate the signal indicative of the appropriate therapeutic treatment to the patient.
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