An improved bio-medical telemetry apparatus for programming an implanted medical
device includes a large substantially planar and concentrically wound first telemetry
coil. The coil is disposed inside a thin flexible housing including layers of insulative
materials to prevent electrical contact between loops of the first telemetry coil
and to hold the first telemetry coil formed shape in place. The apparatus further
includes a communication lead coupled to the first telemetry coil for communicating
with a medical device programmer. During a telemetry session the first telemetry
coil including the flexible housing is disposed at a posterior location of the
torso and an implanted medical device disposed subcutaneously on an anterior location
of the torso. During programming the first telemetry coil is inductively coupled
to the implanted medical device for wireless data communication with the implanted
medical device. The large, substantially planar design of the first telemetry coil
permits more even and large flux paths, which allow for less precise positioning
of the apparatus with respect to the implanted medical device. Also, the flexible
housing conforms to irregular surface of patient's and supporting furnishing providing
comfort to patients lying upon the first telemetry coil during telemetry sessions.
