Self-folding paddle lead and method of fabricating a paddle lead

A method of fabricating a paddle adapted for electrical stimulation of tissue of a patient, the method comprising:

• providing a layer of conductive material;
• laminating a film of insulative material on a first side of the layer of conductive material;
• creating a paddle form in the layer of conductive material, the paddle form including:
• (i) at least a first segment and a second segment with a plurality of electrodes on each segment;
• and (ii) one or more guide structures proximate to at least one end of the paddle form, wherein the one or more guide structures are adapted to distribute force into a body of the paddle form to control folding or unfolding of the paddle form;
• and
• providing an insulative layer over the paddle on a second side of the layer of conductive material;
• wherein the paddle possesses shape memory that causes the paddle to assume a substantially planar state when the shape memory is in a relaxed state.

A method of positioning a paddle-style lead in a patient for electrical stimulation of tissue of the patient, comprising:

• inserting a paddle structure of the lead into an insertion tool or catheter, the paddle structure including at least a first longitudinal portion and a second longitudinal portion, the first and second longitudinal portions defining respective substantially planar surfaces having a plurality of electrodes, wherein contact of the paddle structure with an interior portion of the insertion tool or catheter causes one or several memory shape elements in the paddle structure to be subjected to a compressive force;
• and
• advancing the paddle structure in a folded state through the insertion tool or catheter to exit the insertion tool or catheter within the patient, wherein the planar surfaces of the first and second longitudinal portions are disposed substantially adjacent to each other in the folded state;
• wherein release of the compressive force on the one or several shape memory elements upon the exiting of the paddle from the insertion tool or catheter causes unfolding of the paddle structure to occur in a substantially lateral direction.