Abstract: In one embodiment, a method electrically stimulates an area in a spinal disc. The method comprises: implanting at least one steerable lead at a placement site for stimulating a spinal disc such that the lead is disposed exterior and immediately adjacent to and circumferentially along an annulus of the spinal disc, the at least one lead including a plurality of electrodes distributed along a majority of a circumference of the annulus; connecting the lead to a signal generator; and generating electrical stimulation pulses using the generator to stimulate targeted portions of the spinal disc, wherein the stimulation of the targeted portion of the spinal disc sufficiently stimulates nerve tissue within the spinal disc to prevent communication of pain signals originating in the spinal disc without damaging tissue of the spinal disc.

Abstract: A medical needle or cannula for stimulation or ablation includes a rigid bent tip for simplified placement at target sites within a patient's anatomy. The curved tip or shaft is used to steer the device within the patient's body and to avoid critical anatomical structures. The device is partially insulated and has a tip that is at least partially electrically exposed; a connection to an external signal generator provides electrical stimulation or high-frequency heating of the patient's tissue proximal to the exposed tip. The device includes a longitudinal passage to facilitate the injection of fluids or the insertion of instruments through the cannula or needle.