An Automatic Sensing Test procedure for Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators

An Automatic Sensing Test procedure (AST) for evaluating the sensing performances of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) is presented in this paper. AST is based on the Sensitivity Test described by the Standard CEI EN 45502-2-1 for pacemakers and consists of determining the ICD sensing thresholds at different heartbeat frequencies. Consequently, an extensive evaluation of ICD sensing performances can be achieved. AST has been implemented by means of virtual instruments developed in the Labview environment and has been validated experimentally through several tests. These have been performed inside an anechoic RF chamber. Such an environment guarantees proper shielding against external electromagnetic interferences, thus ensuring reliability and repeatability of the tests. The discussion of the results highlights the usefulness of the proposed procedure.