Dirk-based epicardial defibrillation electrode

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present invention provides an epicardial patch electrode which penetrates the epicardium.
The electrode comprises a support structure having an elongated conductor to which a plurality of outwardly extending dirks are attached.
The dirk-based epicardial defibrillator electrodes comprise electrode structures which utilize flexible membranes which support various configurations of dirk-based defibrillation conductors which are adjustably implantable at specified epicardial positions.
The dirk members extend outwardly from the flexible support structure and have terminal barbs for penetrating and lodging into the myocardium.
The dirk based epicardial electrode devices further provide electrode structures constructed of materials and arranged to aid in the conforming positioning of the electrodes to contact the myocardium.
Other electrode embodiments are provided having a plurality of dirk members connected to separate conductive members mounted to the support structure which may be utilized for pacing, sensing and defibrillation.
These and other benefits of this invention will become clear from the following description by reference to the drawings.