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4.
Use at least two grooves to secure the sleeve to the lead. Secure the lead
and suture sleeve to the adjacent fascia.
5.
Check the suture sleeve after tie-down to demonstrate stability and lack of
slippage by grasping the suture sleeve with fingers and trying to move the
lead in either direction.
Tunneling the Lead
Follow these steps if tunneling the lead:
1.
Allow slack on the lead for strain relief on the lateral side of the suture
sleeve near the venous entry site when securing the leads to body tissue.
This will prevent lead dislodgment caused by the weight of the pulse
generator or upper extremity movement.
Figure 12.
Strain relief loop
WARNING:
Use caution handling the lead terminal when the Connector Tool
is not present on the lead. Do not directly contact the lead terminal with any
surgical instruments or electrical connections such as PSA (alligator) clips,
ECG connections, forceps, hemostats, and clamps. This could damage the
lead terminal, possibly compromising the sealing integrity and result in loss of
therapy or inappropriate therapy.
2.
Remove the stylet and Connector Tool.
NOTE:
A compatible tunneling tip is recommended for use with this lead if the
pulse generator is implanted away from the vein insertion site. Refer to the
instructions for use for the tunneling tip and/or tunneler kit if one is being used.
When using a compatible tunneling tip, do not cap the lead.
3.
Cap the lead terminal if a tunneling tip and/or tunneler kit is not used. Grip
the terminal pin with a hemostat, or equivalent.
WARNING:
Do not contact any other portion of the lead terminal, other than
the terminal pin, even when the lead cap is in place.
