Spiral nerve cuff electrode implantation tool
US6093197A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 8, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jul 25, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 8, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/0556
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A tool for implanting spiral nerve cuff electrodes about a nerve which can be maneuvered into difficult-to-access areas within the body of a mammal. The tool consists of a handle/control device which is coupled to an electrode holding valve assembly at the distal end of the tool by a flexible connection, allowing for accurate positioning of the electrode at the implantation site. The tool handle/control device is coupled to the valve assembly such that the control device can be rotated to release the electrode, which is held to the valve assembly by a vacuum, while the handle is held steady to ensure the precise location of the electrode at a site remote from the handle. The vacuum holding the electrode can be removed from portions of the electrode sequentially, allowing the spiral electrode to curl around the nerve.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.