Optional telemetry antenna for implantable medical devices

An optional antenna assembly for an implantable medical device (“IMD”) having a header block and a radio frequency (“RF”) module configured to support RF telemetry for the IMD, said optional antenna assembly comprising:

• a connection end configured for insertion into the header block;
• a free end configured for deployment external to the header block;
• a connector element located at said connection end, said connector element being configured to establish electrical coupling with the RF module;
• a radiating element coupled to said connector element;
• and
• a biocompatible insulator covering at least a portion of said radiating element.

An implantable medical device (“IMD”) comprising:

• a housing;
• a header block coupled to said housing;
• a radio frequency (“RF”) module contained in said housing, said RF module being configured to support RF telemetry for the IMD;
• an antenna lead bore formed within said header block, said antenna lead bore being configured to receive optional antenna assemblies for the IMD;
• and
• an antenna terminal located within said header block and coupled to said RF module, said antenna terminal being accessible via said antenna lead bore, said antenna terminal being configured to establish electrical coupling with optional antenna assemblies for the IMD.