Abstract: A pulse stimulation system configured for implantation into a patient's body comprises a pulse stimulator, a conductive stimulation lead having a proximal end electrically coupled to the pulse simulator and having a distal end, and an electrode assembly coupled to the distal end of the stimulation lead. The electrode assembly comprises an electrode body having a therapy electrode thereon that is electrically coupled to the stimulation lead for delivering therapy to the patient. A floating electrode is configured to contact the patient's body tissue and has a surface area substantially larger than that of the therapy electrode. A filter is coupled between the therapy electrode and the floating electrode for diverting RF energy toward the floating electrode and away from the therapy electrode.

Abstract: A medical lead is provided for use in a pulse stimulation system of the type which includes a pulse generator for producing electrical stimulation therapy. The lead comprises an elongate insulating body and at least one electrical conductor within the insulating body. The conductor has a proximal end configured to be electrically coupled to the pulse generator and has a DC resistance in the range of 375-2000 ohms. At least one distal electrode is coupled to the conductor.

Abstract: A lead configured to be implanted into a patient's body comprises a lead body and a conductive filer positioned within the lead body and having a distal portion. An electrode is electrically coupled to the lead body and comprises a stimulation portion, a bobbin, and at least one coil of wire wound on the bobbin and electrically coupled between the stimulation portion and the distal end region to form an inductor between the distal end region and the stimulation portion.

Abstract: A neurostimulation system is configured for implantation into a patient's body and comprises a neurostimulator, a conductive stimulation lead having a first proximal end and a first distal end, at least one distal electrode electrically coupled proximate the first distal end, and a lead extension having a second proximal end electrically coupled to the neurostimulator and having a second distal end electrically coupled to the first proximal end. A shunt is electrically coupled to the first proximal end for diverting RF energy from the lead.

Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to apparatus and techniques that aid in the removal or explantation of an implantable medical device (IMD) under the scalp of a patient. The various embodiments of the invention address risks associated with the explantation, such as the risk of damage to leads, the risk of damage to the IMD, the risk that the incision may hinder the explantation, and the risk that the IMD may be difficult to remove. In some embodiments, the invention is directed to apparatus that help the surgeon identify the location of the implanted elements, and that protect the implanted elements from inadvertent damage. In other embodiments, the invention is directed to techniques that facilitate the removal of the IMD.

Abstract: The invention is directed to techniques for decreasing the volume and thickness of a hermetic battery that includes an electrode stack contained within a hermetic housing. In particular, the invention is directed to batteries that have a non-uniform thickness as defined by the hermetic housing. A battery according to the invention includes a battery housing with at least two battery housing portions that define different thicknesses. For example, a first portion of the battery housing may have first thickness and house the battery, while a second portion of the battery housing has a second thickness and includes one or more feedthroughs. The second thickness may be greater than the first thickness.

Abstract: An implantable medical device with anti-infection agent. The implantable medical device may be configured for placement in the head of a patient and for monitoring or treatment of the brain. The implantable medical device may have a housing or it may have a housing and a member for providing a smooth interface between the device and the adjacent tissue. The anti-infection agent may be provided on or impregnated in the housing or the member. In some embodiments, the device includes a single module while in other embodiments a plurality of modules are coupled to provide a smaller profile. In some embodiments the implantable medical device may include both anti-infection and lubricious materials.

Abstract: An implantable medical device (IMD) including a nonhermetic battery is described. The IMD includes components and a power source module that includes the nonhermetic battery. The IMD also includes a barrier to substantially impede movement of substances from the nonhermetic battery to the components. The barrier may include a hermetic feedthrough, a gel, a polymer, or a solid electrolyte within the nonhermetic battery, and a seal member. The barrier may also be a material that encapsulates the nonhermetic battery and a getter within the IMD. In some embodiments, the IMD comprises a modular IMD including an interconnect member. In that case, the barrier may include a material that fills at least a portion of a void defined by the interconnect member. A length and a cross-sectional area of the interconnect member may also act as a barrier.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a recharging system and associated techniques to recharge an implantable medical device (IMD). In particular, a recharging system according to the invention comprises a headset having an energy delivery module that delivers energy to a power source of an IMD implanted on or within the cranium of a patient. The energy delivery module may comprise a coil for inductive transfer of energy to the power source. The headset may be configured for placement over the head of the patient, and may further only partially cover the top of the head. The energy delivery module may be adjustably coupled to the headset. In some embodiments, the position of the energy delivery module may be adjusted along three or four axes, including a rotational axis, allowing the coil to be placed over an IMD located at any of a variety of locations on or within the cranium.