An implantable system control unit (SCU) includes means for measuring tissue
impedance
or other condition to determine allograft health, in order to predict or detect
allograft rejection. The SCU also includes at least two electrodes coupled to means
for delivering electrical stimulation to a patient within whom the device is implanted,
and may also include a reservoir for holding one or more drugs and a driver means
for delivering the drug(s) to the patient. In certain embodiments, the system is
capable of open- and closed-loop operation. In closed-loop operation, at least
one SCU includes a sensor, and the sensed condition is used to adjust stimulation
parameters. Alternatively, this sensory "SCU" sounds an alarm, communicates an
alarm to an external device, and/or is responsive to queries regarding sensed information,
such as tissue impedance.