Patent ID: 6745079
Filing Date: 2004-06-01
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
An implantable lead for stimulation of nerve tissue muscle or organs, the lead comprising:an elongate lead body having an axis and a tip; and at least one extendable member having a distal portion adapted to curl upon itself when not-constrained, a proximal portion, and an intermediate portion between the distal and proximal portion, the distal portion forming an electrode, the extendable member received at least in part within the lead body for axial movement between: a retracted position in which the distal and proximal portions are constrained within the lead body; and an extended position in which the proximal portion is retained within the lead body and the distal portion is deployed out the tip of the lead body such that the distal portion curls upon itself, the intermediate portion being deployed out of the lead body when the extendable member is in the extended position; wherein the intermediate portion is adapted to curl as it is deployed out the tip of the lead body less tightly than the distal portion curls upon itself.