Abstract: Methods and systems for treating patients suffering from eating disorders, e.g. obesity, through the delivery of electrical stimulation directly or indirectly to the pylorus of a patient in an effective stimulation regimen to substantially close the pylorus lumen to inhibit emptying of the stomach. The stimulation electrodes are applied directly to or immediately adjacent to the muscles layers of the pyloric sphincters or are situated in operative relation to the splanchnic nerve that innervates the pyloric sphincter. Stimulation can be delivered continuously 24 hours per day or can be halted at meal times to enable passage of chyme through the pylorus lumen at such times. Alternatively, stimulation is delivered following events related to peristalsis, ingestion or stomach emptying to induce a feeling of satiety.

Abstract: A neurological epidural lead is disclosed having an extension that extends distally beyond the most distal electrode. The length of the extension corresponds to the length of one ore more vertebral segments. The lead is placed in the epidural space so that the electrodes are positioned as desired. In positioning the electrodes, the extension passes through at least one area where the epidural space between the dura and the spinal canal wall is very narrow because the dura and spinal canal wall are in contact. As a result, the extension is held in place by contact with both the dura and spinal canal wall so that lateral lead migration of the electrodes is minimized.