Insertion tool for paddle-style electrode

A system for implanting a paddle-style electrode in a patient without an insertion needle, the system comprising:

• a lead comprising
• a paddle-style electrode platform including a distal end, a proximal end, a back surface, an active surface opposite the back surface, side edges between the back and active surfaces, a plurality holes in one or more of the back surface, active surface, or the side edges of the electrode platform, and a plurality of electrode contacts formed in two or more columns and disposed on the active surface, wherein the plurality of holes comprises a first hole and a second hole, and
• a plurality of conductive wires coupled to the plurality of electrode contacts and extending away from the electrode contacts and out of the proximal end of the paddle-style electrode platform;
• and
• an insertion tool to implant the paddle-style electrode platform in the patient without using an insertion needle, the insertion tool including a platform engager comprising a handle a plurality of pins configured to engage the plurality of holes of the electrode platform to guide the electrode platform during placement of the electrode platform in the patient, wherein the plurality of pins comprises a first pin and a second pin.