Abstract: A method of fabricating a stimulation electrode for use on an implantable lead, the lead and electrode so fabricated and a method of their use. The electrode is made by coating a conductive electrode member with a coating of a high surface area coating having micron or sub-micron surface features and after coating, plasma cleaning the electrode member. The electrode is coupled to an insulated conductor of an implantable lead and is employed to stimulate body tissue. The high surface area coating may be platinum black, ruthenium oxide, another metal oxide, a metal nitride or the like. Steroid may be applied to the electrode member after coating.

Abstract: A medical electrical lead which features an improved anchoring sleeve. Specifically the anchoring sleeve has a first end and a second end and further has a series of circumferential suture grooves thereabout. A longitudinally extending slot is provided across each circumferential suture groove. Each slot extends across each groove but is separate from every other slot. In such a manner the area of the anchoring sleeve may be compressed in the area of the groove due to the relevant slot. Because each slot, however, only extends across one groove, the lead body is not otherwise easily compressed in the area away from each groove. Thus the sleeve does not unintentionally engage with and frictionally interfere with the lead body therethrough unless so intended. In the preferred embodiment the anchoring sleeve has three circumferential grooves, each groove having a slot through the anchor sleeve which extends across.

Abstract: A medical lead which has a reinforced tine assembly. In particular, the medical electrical lead of the present invention features an elongated lead body covered by an insulative sheath. Positioned upon the proximal end of the lead body is a terminal assembly. Terminal assembly permits the lead to be connected to a pulse generator. Positioned at the distal end of the lead body is an electrode. Also positioned proximate the electrode is a tine assembly. The tine assembly is preferably made from a insulative bio-compatible material, preferably silicone. The tine assembly further features a reinforcement to prevent the tine assembly from elongating. In the preferred embodiment, a polyester is used to provide reinforcement member.