US 4,573,481 A · Implantable electrode array

Abstract

An implantable helical electrode assembly configured to fit around a nerve for electrically triggering or measuring an action potential or for blocking conduction in nerve tissue. A multiconductor flexible cable connects the electrode to an implanted signal receiver, and the assembly may include multiple individual flexible ribbon electrodes each partially embedded in a portion of the peripheral surface of a helically formed dielectric support matrix. The spiral configuration of the assembly is easy to install around a nerve bundle during surgical implantation, and the resiliency of the assembly minimizes the risk of damage to nerve tissue. The tissue-contacting surface of each electrode is roughened to increase the electrode surface area.

Claims19

Dependent claims

An electrode assembly for surgical implantation on a nerve of the peripheral nerve system, comprising:

a flexible helically formed supporting matrix of dielectric material;
a flexible conductive electrode secured to the surface of the matrix, the electrode having front and rear surfaces and side edges, the front surface being exposed and not covered by the matrix, the electrode occupying only a portion of the cross-sectional periphery of the matrix;
and
flexible connection means connected to the electrode and extending from the matrix;
the matrix and electrode generally forming a multiturn hollow helix wibh a free end and without a supporting core, the turns being resiliently movable with respect to each other to enable the helix to be wrapped around an unsevered nerve, the helix having a central passage therethrough of size and configuration generally conforming to the external size and configuration of the nerve.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Implantable electrode array

Life of this patent

Implantable electrode array

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims19