Patent ID: 7367992
Filing Date: 2008-05-06
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
1. An implantable electrode array configured to adopt a first configuration, before being inserted into an implantee's body and to adopt a second configuration different from the first configuration, after being inserted into the implantee's body, wherein said electrode array is adapted to apply tissue stimulation, the array comprising: an elongate carrier having a proximal end and a distal end and being initially formed in substantially the second configuration; a plurality of electrodes supported by the carrier at respective longitudinally spaced locations thereon in a region between the proximal end and the distal end; and an outer layer adhered along its length to the elongate carrier by an intermediate bioresorbable adhesive layer positioned between the carrier and the outer layer, the bioresorbable adhesive layer having a sufficient stiffness for retaining the array into said first configuration prior to insertion of the array into the implantee's body, the outer layer being formed so as to naturally adopt the second configuration as the stiffness of the adhesive layer is reduced after being inserted into the implantee's body.