tined lead
A pacemaker lead with flexible plastic projections designed to passively anchor the electrode in cardiac tissue.
Full Definition
A tined lead is a type of cardiac pacing lead that features flexible, curved plastic projections (tines) extending from the electrode tip to provide passive fixation within the heart. Unlike active fixation leads that use screws or other mechanical anchoring mechanisms, tined leads rely on the natural tissue growth and fibrosis that occurs around the tines to maintain stable positioning over time. The tines are typically made of biocompatible materials and are designed to engage with trabecular structures in the right ventricle or atrial appendage. This design allows for stable lead positioning while minimizing trauma during insertion, as no active screwing motion is required. Tined leads are particularly useful in anatomical locations where trabeculation provides good mechanical support for passive fixation, though they may be less suitable in smooth-walled areas of the heart.
Usage
Usage note: Contrast with active fixation leads; specify fixation mechanism type in technical documentation.
In Context
- "The tined ventricular lead achieved excellent acute thresholds and stable positioning in the right ventricular apex." — Implant procedure report
- "Tined leads are preferred for atrial placement when adequate trabeculation is present in the appendage." — Lead selection guideline