Systems and methods for inputting fluid into a lead of an electrical stimulation system

An insertion kit for an electrical stimulation system, the insertion kit comprising:

• a lead configured and arranged for insertion into a patient, the lead comprising
• a lead body having a distal end portion, a proximal end portion, and a longitudinal length,
• a jacket disposed over at least a portion of the longitudinal length of the lead body, the jacket having an outer surface and an opposing inner surface, at least a portion of the outer surface of the jacket forming at least a portion of an outer surface of the lead body, at least a portion of the inner surface of the jacket open to the lead body,
• a plurality of apertures defined along the outer surface of the lead body with each of the plurality of apertures extending completely through the jacket to the inner surface, the plurality of apertures comprising at least one first aperture,
• a plurality of electrodes disposed along the distal end portion of the lead body,
• a plurality of terminals disposed along the proximal end portion of the lead body,
• a plurality of conductors electrically coupling the plurality of electrodes to the plurality of terminals, and
• conductor insulation disposed over each of the plurality of conductors,
• wherein at least a portion of the conductor insulation is in fluid communication with the local environment external to the lead via the plurality of apertures;
• and
• a fluid-insertion assembly configured and arranged for inputting fluid into the lead, via the at least one first aperture, prior to implantation of the lead into the patient.