Abstract: Devices and methods of use for introduction and implantation of an electrode as part of a minimally invasive technique. A system includes an introducer tool including a dilator portion, a carrier portion and a release mechanism, the dilator portion selectively engageable with the carrier portion. The system further includes a lead including a lead body and an electrode structure, the electrode structure including an active side with an electrode disposed thereon, and an inactive side with an element disposed thereon. The introducer tool is configured to be temporarily inserted into a patient over a guidewire, and a portion of the release mechanism is selectively engageable with the element of the electrode structure to retain the electrode structure to the introducer tool.

Abstract: Devices are provided for a suturing device used during laparoscopic surgical procedures. A suturing needle includes a shaft forming a rod axis; a curved body having a piercing tip at a first end and a base at a second end; and an arm extending radially from the shaft to the base of the curved body such that the curved body is positioned in a plane orthogonal to the rod axis of the shaft and rotatable about the shaft in the plane orthogonal to the rod axis. The suturing device includes a housing, a suturing needle, one or more sutures, a suture magazine configured to hold the one or more sutures, and a drive system, whereby the drive system may actuate the suturing needle to rotate in the plane orthogonal to the drive system, allowing the suturing needle to drive in to and out of tissue to apply a suture.