Devices and methods for retention of temporary pacing leads

A method for positioning an electrode at target tissue of a patient's heart, said method comprising:

• navigating an elongate body having a distal portion and a proximal portion to position an electrode array and at least one anchoring element carried on a side of the distal portion of the elongate body adjacent to the target tissue;
• after the distal portion of the elongate body has been positioned, engaging the distal portion but not the proximal portion of the elongate body against the target tissue to contact the electrode array and the at least one anchoring element against the target tissue;
• after engaging the distal portion of the elongate body against the target tissue, deploying the at least one anchoring element on the side of the distal portion of the elongate body to affix the at least one anchoring element to the target tissue;
• coupling a first pacing signal generator to the proximal end of the elongate body, wherein the first pacing signal generator comprises a smaller profile than a second pacing signal generator that is solely external to the body of the patient;
• delivering a pacing signal to the target tissue with the electrode array;
• and
• retaining the distal portion of the elongate body engaged against the target tissue for between 1 week and 180 days.