title: Pacemaker longevity modelling.
abstract: A generalized mathematical technique is presented for computing the elapsed time necessary for a lithium iodine powered pacemaker to reach any specified battery voltage or degree of battery discharge within its life span. In particular, the method yields a direct mathematical expression for the longevity of pacemakers the circuits of which possess linear load lines. Because the current-voltage relationship, which defines the load line, is affected by programmed output settings, electrode/tissue interface impedance and degree of inhibition, the method enables the direct determination of the effect of these parameters on pacemaker longevity.
mesh_terms: D011211:Electric Power Supplies; D004867:Equipment Design; D008433:Mathematics; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial; D013997:Time Factors