A method and apparatus for automatically detecting and diagnosing lead-related
conditions is provided. Specifically, relatively short-term and relatively long-term
impedance parameters are determined for detecting an impedance trend indicative
of a lead-related condition such as an open circuit, which may be due to a conductor
fracture or poor connection to an associated implantable medical device, or a short
circuit due to an insulation breach. Monitoring of multiple lead impedance parameters
is performed to diagnose a lead-related condition based on a number of diagnostic
criteria. Supplementary analysis of multiple lead impedance parameter trends may
be performed to identify lead-specific conditions, such as metal ion oxidation
induced insulation degradation. A lead-related condition diagnosis and supporting
data are stored in memory for uplinking to an external device for review by a clinician.
A recommended corrective action and/or a patient notification signal for a lead-related
condition may optionally be provided.