Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region from an epidural, cervical location to address at least one of high back pain, mid-back pain, low back pain, and leg pain without creating paresthesia in the patient.

Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal chord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side affects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications.

Abstract: A medical device detects a previously defined event, and controls delivery of therapy to a patient according to therapy information associated with the previously defined event. In exemplary embodiments, the medical device enters a learning mode in response to a command received from a user, e.g., the patient or a clinician. In such embodiments, the medical device defines the event, collects the therapy information, and associates the therapy information with the defined event while operating in the learning mode. In some embodiments, the medical device defines the event based on the output of a sensor that indicates a physiological parameter of the patient during the learning mode. The sensor may be an accelerometer, which generates an output that reflects motion and/or posture of the patient. The medical device may collect therapy information by recording therapy changes made by the user during the learning mode.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method, of fabricating a stimulation lead for stimulating tissue of a patient, comprises: providing a lead body, the lead body comprising a plurality of conductors embedded within insulating material; providing a plurality of terminals; electrically coupling the plurality of terminals with the plurality of conductors; providing a plurality of electrodes, the plurality of electrodes comprising a plurality of substantially continuous longitudinal trenches on a surface of the electrodes, the electrodes comprising areas of reflow material forming microstructures substantially continuously along walls of the longitudinal trenches; and electrically coupling the plurality of electrodes with the plurality of conductors.

Abstract: A patch for a therapeutic electrical stimulation device includes a shoe connected to the first side of the patch, the shoe including a body extending in a longitudinal direction from a first end to a second end, and having first and second surfaces, the first end of the shoe defining at least two ports, and the first surface of the shoe defining a connection member. The patch also includes at least one conductor positioned in the ports of the first end of the shoe. The shoe is configured for sliding insertion into a receptacle defined by a controller so that the conductor is connected to the controller to deliver electrical current from the controller, through the conductor, and to the electrodes, and the connection member is at least partially captured by a detent defined by the controller in the receptacle to retain the shoe within the receptacle.

Abstract: Disclosed is a modular system for providing electrical stimulation, in which a first modular electrode section has a contoured back end configured to engage a contoured front end of another electrode section or a tool that may be used to place the first modular electrode section in the patient's body. The contours of the modular electrode section allow the two components to engage with one another so as to prevent their separation in the horizontal plane, and a lead extending from the first modular electrode is configured to engage keels on the top surface of the second electrode portion or tool, with such keels providing a snap-type attachment between the lead and the second electrode portion or tool, such that the two components may be joined together but easily separated from one another through the intentional separation of the lead from the keels on the second electrode portion or tool.

Abstract: An implantable lead for a medical device with an isolated contact connection for connecting a conductor to a contact reduces the opportunity for conductor material to migrate to a contact or into a patient. The implantable lead comprises a lead body having a proximal end and a distal end, at least one conductor, at least one contact carried on the proximal end, at least one contact carried on the distal end, at least one coupling. The lead has an exterior surface. The conductor is contained in the lead body and extends from the lead proximal end to the distal end. The conductor is electrically insulated. The contact carried on the proximal end is electrically connected to the conductor. The coupling has a conductor coupling and a contact coupling. The conductor coupling is placed over the conductor and attached to the conductor. The contact coupling exits the lead body and has a weld to connect the contact coupling to the contact.

Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to a technique for percutaneously introducing a stimulation lead into a target stimulation site via the epidural region proximate the spine of a patient. The process of introducing the stimulation lead may include the use of a hollow stimulation lead introducer, which comprises an elongated sheath and an elongated dilator. The dilator fits within the sheath and serves to widen a path through the epidural region for the introduction of a stimulation lead. At least a portion of the stimulation lead introducer has an oblong cross-section, allowing passage of stimulation leads such as paddle leads. The stimulation lead introducer may enter the epidural region proximate a spine of a patient via a guidewire. The stimulation lead introducer provides a path through the epidural region of a patient to a target stimulation site. A stimulation lead may travel through the path to reach the target stimulation site where it may provide therapy to the patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a percutaneous insertion-capable lead, wherein insertion made through a percutaneous insertion structure. For one embodiment of such lead, the electrode-supporting stimulation portion of the lead includes at least one waisted region, relative to a transverse dimension of the lead, to facilitate lead steerability.

Abstract: A medical system for electrical stimulation includes a first column of electrodes, a second column of electrodes, an expandable member disposed between first and second columns, and an expansion mechanism adapted to transmit an externally applied pressure to the expandable member. The pressure expands the expandable member in order to force the first column of electrodes apart from the second column of electrodes. The first and second columns, disposed side-by-side, may be inserted through a percutaneous needle and into a epidural space, alongside a spinal cord; after insertion, the first column may be forced apart from the second column by applying the pressure to the expandable member.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of affecting physiological disorders by stimulating a specific location along the sympathetic nerve chain. Preferably, the present invention provides a method of affecting a variety of physiological disorders or pathological conditions by placing an electrode adjacent to or in communication with at least one ganglion along the sympathetic nerve chain and stimulating the at least one ganglion until the physiological disorder or pathological condition has been affected.

Abstract: A neurostimulation lead or lead extension includes a lead body having a proximal end and a distal end. A plurality of first contacts are disposed on the distal end of the lead body. A plurality of second contacts are disposed on a proximal end of the lead body. A plurality of conductors extend along the lead body. Each of the plurality of conductors electrically couples at least one of the first contacts to at least one of the second contacts. At least one of the conductors includes at least one switch disposed along a length of the conductor. The at least one switch is configured and arranged to separate the conductor into a plurality of individual segments when the at least one switch is opened.

Abstract: A lead assembly includes a lead with a distal end and a proximal end. The lead includes a plurality of electrodes disposed at the distal end and a plurality of terminals disposed at the proximal end. The lead also defines at least one central lumen and a plurality of outer lumens. The central and outer lumens extend from the proximal end to the distal end such that the plurality of outer lumens extend laterally from the at least one central lumen. The lead further includes a plurality of conductive wires. Each conductive wire couples at least one of the plurality of electrodes electrically to at least one of the plurality of terminals. At least two conductive wires are disposed in each of the plurality of outer lumens.

Abstract: An implantable lead for electrical stimulation of a spinal cord is disclosed. The implantable lead has a paddle having a surface and a first and a second end, an electrode array positioned and arranged on the surface of the paddle, and at least one tether having an end that extends from one of the first and the second end of the paddle. The electrode array has at least one electrode contact configured to communicate with a corresponding electrode and a conductor. The implantable lead may be included in a kit that also has a securing device and instructions for implanting the implantable lead into the spinal cord. A method of making the implantable lead configured for electric stimulation of a spinal cord is also disclosed. A method of implanting the implantable lead in a spinal canal is also disclosed.

Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side effects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications.

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: Selective high-frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side effects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications.

Abstract: A microelectrode array system used to sense physiological signals and stimulate physiological tissue to form signals is disclosed. The array includes a dielectric substrate and a two dimensional array of signal microelectrodes substantially perpendicular to and integrated on the dielectric substrate. At least one reference microelectrode is located adjacent to and integrated with the signal microelectrodes on the dielectric substrate. The reference microelectrodes are positioned on the dielectric substrate relative to the signal microelectrodes to enable a reduced level of electrical noise to be detected between the reference microelectrodes and the recording microelectrodes.

Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side effects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications.

Abstract: An implantable connector comprises an electrically insulative housing including an outer wall, an interior cavity surrounded by the outer wall, a port through which the lead body portion can be introduced into the interior cavity, and a pair of first apertures disposed through the outer wall on a first side of the housing. The connector further comprises an electrical spring clip contact mounted to the housing. The contact includes a common portion and a pair of legs extending from opposite ends of the common portion. The legs respectively extend through the first apertures into the interior cavity, such that the legs firmly engage the electrical terminal therebetween when the lead body portion is introduced into the interior cavity.

Abstract: A tissue stimulation system and computer software and method of monitoring a neurostimulation lead having a plurality of electrodes implanted within a patient (e.g., adjacent the spinal cord) is provided. Neurostimulation lead models are provided, each of which includes estimated electrical parameter data (e.g., electrical field potential data) corresponding to a predetermined position of the neurostimulation lead. Electrical energy is transmitted to or from the electrodes, and electrical parameter data (e.g., electrical field potential data) is measured in response to the transmitted electrical energy. The measured electrical parameter data is compared with the estimated electrical parameter data of each of the neurostimulation lead models, and a position of the neurostimulation lead is determined based on the comparison.

Abstract: An implantable lead having at least one electrode contact at or near its distal end prevents undesirable movement of the electrode contact from its initial implant location. One embodiment relates to a spinal cord stimulation (SCS) lead. A first injectable material is injected into the dura space to mechanically position the electrode array with respect to the spinal cord. Conjunctively for use with adhesives, or alternatively for use instead of the adhesives, a balloon may be positioned on the electrode lead array. The balloon is filled with air, liquid or a compliant material. When inflated, the balloon stabilizes the lead with respect to the spinal cord and holds the lead in place. An elastic aspect of the balloon serves as an internal contained relief valve to limit the pressure the balloon may place on the surrounding tissues when the epidural space is constrained.

Abstract: A method for configuring stimulation pulses in an implantable stimulator device having a plurality of electrodes is disclosed, which method is particularly useful in adjusting the electrodes by current steering during initialization of the device. In one aspect, a set of ideal pulses for patient therapy is determined, in which at least two of the ideal pulses are of the same polarity and are intended to be simultaneous applied to corresponding electrodes on the implantable stimulator device during an initial duration. These pulses are reconstructed into fractionalized pulses, each comprised of pulse portions. The fractionalized pulses are applied to the corresponding electrodes on the device during a final duration, but the pulse portions of the fractionalized pulses are not simultaneously applied during the final duration.

Abstract: A method for implanting a neurostimulation lead within a patient includes measuring impedances of electrodes on the lead in order to correctly position the lead relative to a target tissue region. The electrodes are circumferentially segmented electrodes that are spaced from each other about the longitudinal axis of the lead. When the difference between the impedances of the electrodes exceeds a threshold value, the lead is in the correct position. In accordance with another embodiment, impedance measurements are used to select which one of the electrodes is closest to the target tissue region. By determining which electrode has the highest impedance and which electrode has the lowest impedance, the type of tissue adjacent to each electrode can be determined based on the conductivity properties of the tissue. The target tissue region may be a spinal cord, a posterior longitudinal ligament, white matter, or gray matter.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a paddle lead is implanted within a patient such that the electrodes are positioned within the cervical or thoracic spinal levels. An electrode combination on a first row of electrodes can be determined that is effective for a first pain location with minimal effects on other regions of the body. The first pain location can be addressed by stimulating a first dorsal column fiber due to the relatively fine electrical field resolution achievable by the multiple columns. Then, another electrode combination on a second row of electrodes can be determined for a second pain location with minimal effects on other regions. The second pain location could be addressed by stimulating a second dorsal column fiber. After the determination of the appropriate electrodes for stimulation, the patient's IPG can be programmed to deliver pulses using the first and second rows according to the determined electrode combinations.

Abstract: A system for transferring spinal cord signals comprises a superior electrode and an inferior electrode. The superior electrode interfaces with a first portion of a spinal cord of a human body; and the inferior electrode interfaces with a second portion of the spinal cord. The superior electrode has at least one superior contact for receiving signals from the first portion of the spinal cord to transmit to the inferior electrode; and the inferior electrode has at least one inferior contact for transmitting signals received from the superior electrode to the second portion of the spinal cord.

Abstract: The evoked spinal cord potential monitoring apparatus of the present invention includes: a pair of electrodes 14; and a holding section 12 for holding the pair of electrodes 14, a tip section of each of the electrodes 14 being extended outwards from an end of the holding section 12, and the electrodes 14 being movable relative to the holding section 12. A hook section 15 engageable to an intercostal nerve is provided at the tip section of each of the electrodes 14, and the electrodes 14 or the holding section 12 is moved while the hook section 15 is coupled to the intercostal nerve such that the hook section 15 and the holding section 12 are able to hold the intercostal nerve therebetween. The apparatus requires no preoperative preparation, is capable of coping with an emergency case, and further, is unsusceptible to the influence of anesthetics.

Abstract: A method for using spinal cord stimulation to treat symptoms of motor disorders includes implanting a stimulation lead within a ventral portion of the epidural space. The lead is implanted with at least a portion of the electrodes facing the spinal cord. In a method for providing therapy to a patient suffering from a motor disorder, electrical stimulation energy is applied to at least one ventral column nerve fiber through the implanted stimulation lead. A peripheral region of the patient's body exhibits the symptoms of the motor disorder, and the ventral column nerve fiber to which the stimulation is applied innervates that peripheral region.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a percutaneous insertion-capable lead, wherein insertion made through a percutaneous insertion structure. For one embodiment of such lead, the electrode-supporting stimulation portion of the lead includes at least one waisted region, relative to a transverse dimension of the lead, to facilitate lead steerability.

Abstract: An implantable lead includes a lead body. A plurality of conductors are disposed within the lead body and electrically couple at least one electrode to at least one terminal. At least one of the conductors includes a plurality of units. Each of the units includes a first conductor segment extending along the lead body from a beginning point to a first position, a second conductor segment extending from the first position to a second position, and a third conductor segment extending along the elongated member from the second position to an endpoint. The conductor segments are arranged so as to form alternating single-coil regions and multi-coil regions. At least one support element is disposed along at least a portion of at least one of the single-coil regions and is configured and arranged to increase the stiffness of the at least one of the single-coil regions.

Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to a technique for percutaneously introducing a stimulation lead into a target stimulation site via the epidural region proximate the spine of a patient. The process of introducing the stimulation lead may include the use of a hollow stimulation lead introducer, which comprises an elongated sheath and an elongated dilator. The dilator fits within the sheath and serves to widen a path through the epidural region for the introduction of a stimulation lead. At least a portion of the stimulation lead introducer has an oblong cross-section, allowing passage of stimulation leads such as paddle leads. The stimulation lead introducer may enter the epidural region proximate a spine of a patient via a guidewire. The stimulation lead introducer provides a path through the epidural region of a patient to a target stimulation site. A stimulation lead may travel through the path to reach the target stimulation site where it may provide therapy to the patient.

Abstract: Various device embodiments comprise a pulse generator, a signal processing module and a controller. The pulse generator is adapted to provide a neural stimulation signal to be applied at a neural simulation site within an autonomic nervous system (ANS). The signal processing module is adapted to receive and process sensed neural traffic at a neural sensing site within the ANS. The controller is connected to the pulse generator and adapted to provide a neural stimulation control signal to the pulse generator to generate the neural stimulation signal, and to the signal processing module to receive a feedback control signal indicative of the sensed neural traffic. The controller is adapted to adjust the neural stimulation control signal to adjust at least one parameter of the neural stimulation signal to converge on desired sensed neural traffic at the neural sensing site. Other aspects and embodiments are provided herein.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method of fabricating an implantable stimulation paddle comprises: providing a sheet of conductive material coupled to a first insulative layer; laser removing portions of the conductive material to form a pattern of conductive material, the pattern of conductive material including a plurality of isolated metal traces; providing a second insulative layer over the pattern of conductive material so that the pattern of conductive material is interposed between the first and second insulative layers; and exposing portions of the metal traces to form electrodes on the paddle for delivering electrical stimulation.

Abstract: A combined electrical and chemical stimulation lead is especially adapted for providing treatment to the spine and nervous system. The stimulation lead includes electrodes that may be selectively positioned along various portions of the stimulation lead in order to precisely direct electrical energy to ablate or electrically stimulate the target tissue. The invention also includes a method of activating electrodes in the electrical stimulation lead whereby an ablative lesion can be formed in a desired shape and size. The invention further includes a method of managing pain in a sacrum of a patient, and a method of assembling an electrical stimulation device.

Abstract: An exemplary includes acquiring an electroneurogram of the right carotid sinus nerve or the left carotid sinus nerve, analyzing the electroneurogram for at least one of chemosensory information and barosensory information and calling for one or more therapeutic actions based at least in part on the analyzing. Therapeutic actions may aim to treat conditions such as sleep apnea, an increase in metabolic demand, hypoglycemia, hypertension, renal failure, and congestive heart failure. Other exemplary methods, devices, systems, etc., are also disclosed.

Abstract: An implantable device for the atraumatic removal of chronically implanted medical devices.

Abstract: An aspect of the present subject matter relates to a baroreflex stimulator. An embodiment of the stimulator includes a pulse generator to provide a baroreflex stimulation signal through an electrode, and a modulator. The modulator modulates the baroreflex stimulation signal to increase the baroreflex stimulation therapy by a predetermined rate of change to lower systemic blood pressure to a target pressure. Other aspects are provided herein.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a kit, for securing a lead or cannula within a burr hole, comprises: a base structure to be positioned immediately adjacent to or partially within the burr hole; a lead securing member for securing the lead within the burr hole, the lead securing member comprising a first arm structure and a second arm structure, at least one spring loaded structure adapted to exert a force to bring the first arm structure and the second arm structure together; and a positioning tool having a distal end adapted to be inserted within the lead securing member; wherein when the distal end of the positioning tool is positioned within the lead securing member, the distal end holds the first and second arm structures a sufficient distance apart to receive a lead or a cannula between the first and second arm structures.

Abstract: A method for treating a patient having discogenic pain includes implanting a neurostimulation lead within an anterior portion of the epidural space adjacent to the posterior longitudinal ligament. A plurality of electrodes is attached to the lead and the lead is implanted with at least a portion of the electrodes facing the posterior longitudinal ligament. The lead may be implanted in the lumbar region of the patient's spine, posterior and parallel to the posterior longitudinal ligament. Electrical stimulation energy applied to the patient through the electrode lead implanted in this manner inhibits the pain signals traveling within the posterior longitudinal ligament. Thus, the applied electrical stimulation energy has an anesthetic effect on the pain fibers adjacent to the posterior longitudinal ligament.

Abstract: Disclosed is an implantable anchor for anchoring a catheter, including (by way of non-limiting example) an implantable lead, such as may be used for spinal cord stimulation, to the body of a patient, along with a method for its use. The anchor comprises an elongate body have a central lumen extending through the body from its proximal end to its distal end, which central lumen is configured to snugly receive the catheter body. In addition to the central lumen, a second lumen is provided in the proximal end of the anchor and is configured to receive an injector so that adhesive may be injected into the anchor surrounding at least a portion of the catheter body. In doing so, the anchor may be fixed to the catheter body, such that when the anchor is sutured in place within the patient's body, migration of the catheter may be avoided.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a paddle-style lead for implantation in the epidural space through an insertion tool, the paddle-style lead comprises: a paddle structure that comprises: (i) a frame of rigid material, the frame comprising a spring member adapted to bias the frame to assume a first width and a first length, the frame being adapted to elongate to assume a second width and a second length under application of a compressive force; and (ii) elastic material disposed across an interior surface area defined the frame, wherein a plurality of electrodes and a plurality of electrical traces are provided on the elastic material, wherein the plurality of electrical traces are electrically coupled to a plurality of lead conductors and the plurality of electrodes; wherein the plurality of electrical traces comprises a plurality of alternating curves that elongate when the elastic material is stretched.

Abstract: Described herein are devices, systems and methods for determining if a nerve is nearby a device or a region of a device. In general, a device for determining if a nerve is nearby a device includes an elongate body having an outer surface with one or more bipole pairs arranged on the outer surface. Bipole pairs may also be referred to as tight bipoles. The bipole pairs may be arranged as a bipole network, and may include a cathode and an anode that are spaced relatively close together to form a limited broadcast field. In general, the broadcast filed is a controlled or “tight” broadcast field that extends from the bipole pair(s). Methods of using these devices and system are also described.

Abstract: An implantable lead for a medical device with a coplanar coupling for connecting a conductor to a contact reduces conductor bending moments to improve lead reliability. The implantable lead comprises a lead body having a proximal end and a distal end, at least one conductor, at least one contact carried on the proximal end, at least one contact carried on the distal end, and at least one coupling. The lead body has an exterior surface. The conductor is contained in the lead body and extends from the lead proximal end to the distal end. The conductor is also electrically insulated. The contact carried on the proximal end is electrically connected to the conductor. The coupling has a conductor coupling and a contact coupling. The conductor coupling is placed over the conductor and attached to the conductor. The contact coupling exits the lead body and has a weld to connect the contact coupling to the contact.

Abstract: An electrode array for insertion into soft tissue comprises a multitude of thin flexible electrodes each having a distal tip and a proximal end, wherein at least portions of the electrodes extending from their proximal ends are disposed in parallel. The electrodes are embedded in a matrix dissolvable in an aqueous solvent such as a body fluid. The matrix comprises two or more sections differing in their dissolution rates. A first section encloses a portion of the electrodes extending in a proximal direction from a distal portion thereof. A second section encloses a portion of the electrodes extending from the first section towards their proximal ends.

Abstract: A method for improving renal function includes placing an electrode on a dorsal spinal cord within a central nervous system and applying an electrical current to the electrode. The electrode is positioned, and the electrical current is configured, to stimulate an afferent neuron without stimulating an efferent neuron, thereby causing an increase in renal excretion of sodium and water while having an insubstantial affect on a sympathetic nervous system.

Abstract: A device configured for implantation beneath a patient's skin for the purpose of tissue, e.g., nerve or muscle, stimulation and/or parameter monitoring and/or data communication. Devices in accordance with the invention are comprised of a sealed housing, typically having an axial dimension of less than 60 mm and a lateral dimension of less than 6 mm, containing a power source for powering electronic circuitry within. A placement structure is shown for facilitating placement of the implantable device proximate to neural/muscular tissue.

Abstract: A nerve stimulation lead has a distal end, a proximal end, and a longitudinal length. The nerve stimulation lead includes a plurality of electrodes disposed at the distal end, a plurality of terminals disposed at the proximal end, and a plurality of conductive wires electrically coupling the plurality of electrodes electrically to the plurality of terminals. The nerve stimulation lead also includes at least one anchoring unit disposed on the nerve stimulation lead. The at least one anchoring unit is configured and arranged for anchoring the nerve stimulation lead against a bony structure.

Abstract: A system for lead implantation includes a lead having a paddle-style electrode extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the paddle-style electrode, having a back surface; an active surface; a plurality of electrode contacts disposed on the active surface; and a longitudinal lumen extending into the paddle-style electrode and defining an opening at the proximal end of the paddle-style electrode. The lead also has at least one lead body extending from the paddle-style electrode. The at least one lead body includes conductors that are electrically coupled to the electrode contracts. The system also includes an insertion tool having a distal portion for insertion into the longitudinal lumen of the paddle-style electrode. At least the distal portion of the insertion tool or the longitudinal lumen (or both) includes a low friction material forming a surface with a coefficient of friction of 0.1 or less.

Abstract: An electric stimulation device includes a main body portion having a stimulation electrode stimulating nerves or muscles inside the living body, a stimulation circuit portion with a stimulation circuit electrically connected to the stimulation electrode and applying a stimulation signal to the stimulation electrode, and a support body connected to the stimulation circuit portion and holding the implant position of the stimulation electrode inside the living body. The electric stimulation device also includes a fixing body connectable to the base end portion of the main body portion. The fixing body includes a fixing body side coil portion that receives an electromagnetic wave transmitted from an external device. When the fixing body is connected to the main body portion, the fixing body side coil portion is electrically connected to the stimulation circuit to enable power feeding and/or communication with respect to the stimulation circuit in response to the electromagnetic wave.

Abstract: A lead anchor includes a plurality of parallel tubular members and at least one suture element configured and arranged for receiving a suture to suture the lead anchor to patient tissue. Each tubular member defines a lead lumen having a first opening and a second opening through which a lead can pass.