Stylet for an implantable lead

Abstract

An implantable lead for a medical device with an improved stylet has a low friction distal tip to reduce insertion friction and a preformed distal curve that meets navigational needs while avoiding contours likely to damage the lead. The improved stylet comprises a lead body, a stylet lumen, at least one conductor, at least one contact, and a stylet. The lead body has a proximal end, a distal end, and an exterior surface. The stylet lumen is formed inside the lead body. The conductor is contained in the lead body and extends from the lead proximal end to the distal end. The conductor being electrically insulated by the lead body. There is a contact carried on the proximal end and electrically connected to the conductor, and there is a contact carried on the lead distal end and electrically connected to the conductor. The stylet is configured for insertion into the stylet lumen. The stylet has a straight portion, a curved portion, and a ball tip located on the distal end. The curved portion has a curve with a tangent between the curve and the straight portion that increases as the curve approaches the distal end.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.