Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A pacemaker/monitor (10) is disclosed for applying a pacing current to a patient through a pair of pacing electrodes (12). The pacemaker/monitor includes a plurality of manual inputs (26) for use by an operator and a microprocessor (16) that responds to programmed instructions stored in read-only memory (20). Cooperatively, these components control the operation of the pacemaker/monitor. In that regard, the desired magnitude of the pacing current in input to the pacemaker/monitor via a limitless rotary current control (46), formed by a rotary pulse generator (52) and a decoder circuit (50). The microprocessor monitors the operation of the various manual inputs and sets the pacing current to zero milliamperes in the event one of the inputs is used, regardless of the position of the rotary pulse generator. For example, when the pacemaker/monitor is turned ON, or the pacing mode of operation is selected, the pacing current is zeroed. Subsequent adjustments in the pacing current are then governed by the microprocessor in response to rotation of the rotary pulse generator. The use of the rotary pulse generator advantageously allows the pacing current level to be quickly adjusted, while the automatic rezeroing of the pacing current decreases the likelihood of an unduly high and potentially painful pacing current being inadvertently applied to the patient.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim