Implantable expandable multicontact electrodes
US6205361A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 28, 1999 |
| Grant date | Mar 20, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 28, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/0553
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A paddle-type electrode or electrode array is implantable like a percutaneously inserted lead, i.e., without requiring major surgery, but once inserted, expands to provide a platform for many electrode configurations. The electrode array is provided on a flexible, foldable, subcarrier or substrate. Such subcarrier or substrate is folded, or compressed. during implantation, thereby facilitating its insertion using simple, well-known percutaneous implantation techniques. Once implanted, such subcarrier or substrate expands, thereby placing the electrodes in a desired spaced-apart positional relationship, and thus achieving a desired electrode array configuration. A memory element is used within the subcarrier or substrate which causes the electrode array to expand or unfold to a desired unfolded or expanded state after it has been implanted while in a folded up or compressed state. Further, the electrode array includes a membrane as an integral part thereof that prevents ingrowth of tissue inside the electrode array, thereby facilitating repositioning, removal, and/or reinsertion of the electrode array, as required.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.