| abstract |
Endocardial lead assemblies (10) are disclosed that may be particularly useful for placement within the coronary sinus. The lead assemblies may have open ends or closed ends. Lead assemblies having closed ends may be implanted using conventional implantation procedures. Lead assemblies having open ends may be implanted by first locating a stylet within the patient's body and, then, inserting the lead into the patient's body along the stylet. Each disclosed lead assembly uses one or more stents (40a, 40b) which expand to contact the inner surface of a body vessel once the lead has been properly positioned. Thus, the stents fix the lead at the desired location. Additionally, the stents may be used as electrodes for pacing and/or sensing. |