tissue trauma and facilitate explant. However, deeper implantation (e.g., subpectoral) may help avoid erosion
or extrusion in some patients.
If an abdominal implant is suitable, it is recommended that implantation occur on the left abdominal side.
If it is necessary to tunnel the lead, consider the following:
WARNING:
For leads that require the use of a Connector Tool, 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, such as a short within the header.
WARNING:
Do not contact any other portion of the DF4–LLHH or DF4–LLHO lead terminal, other than the
terminal pin, even when the lead cap is in place.
Do not contact any other portion of the IS4–LLLL lead terminal, other than the terminal pin, even when the
lead cap is in place.
•
If a compatible tunneler is not used, cap the lead terminal pins. A Penrose drain, large chest tube, or
tunneling tool may be used to tunnel the leads.
•
For DF4-LLHH or DF4-LLHO leads, if a compatible tunneling tip and/or tunneler kit is not used, cap the
lead terminal and grip only the terminal pin with a hemostat or equivalent.
•
For IS4-LLLL leads, if a compatible tunneling tip and/or tunneler kit is not used, cap the lead terminal and
grip only the terminal pin with a hemostat or equivalent.
•
Gently tunnel the leads subcutaneously to the implantation pocket, if necessary.
•
Reevaluate all lead signals to determine if any of the leads have been damaged during the tunneling
procedure.
If the leads are not connected to a pulse generator at the time of lead implantation, they must be capped
before closing the incision.
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