Lead electrode incorporating extracellular matrix

A method comprising applying isolated ECM to at least a portion of an electrode in an amount effective to inhibit fibrotic capsule formation and/or enhance excitable tissue formation around a lead comprising the electrode after implantation of the lead.

A method, comprising:

• introducing to a mammal a lead comprising one or more electrodes including an amount of isolated ECM effective to inhibit fibrotic capsule formation associated with lead implantation.

A method, comprising:

• introducing to a mammal a lead comprising one or more electrodes including an amount of isolated ECM effective to enhance electrically excitable cells at a site of implantation of the lead.

A cardiac rhythm management (CRM) system, comprising:

• a lead having one or more electrodes including isolated ECM, the one or more electrodes disposed along the lead;
• and
• an implantable medical device including an energy source and electronic circuitry adapted to deliver electrical stimulation pulses to the one or more electrodes.

A method for treating a myocardial region including at least portions of an injured area, comprising:

• delivering pacing pulses to the myocardial region of a mammal through one or more electrodes of a plurality of pacing electrodes, wherein the one or more electrodes include isolated ECM when introduced to the mammal with the plurality of pacing electrodes.