Patent ID: 6415187
Filing Date: 2002-07-02
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
An implantable electrode array comprising:a foldable paddle having a perimeter edge and including a plurality of electrode contacts arranged in a spaced-apart relationship along the perimeter edge; a shape-memory wire made from a metal or a polymer formed in the perimeter edge of the foldable paddle, said shape-memory wire assuming a desired shape in the absence of external forces, said shape-memory wire having flexible properties that allow the shape-memory wire to bend and fold when subjected to external forces; means for making electrical contact with each of the plurality of electrode contacts; and an opening in the foldable paddle; wherein the electrode array may be folded to assume a small cross-sectional area during implantation, but whereby the electrode array unfolds to assume an expanded configuration as controlled by the desired shape of the shape-memory wire after implantation; and wherein an attachment loop of the shape-memory wire is exposed in the opening of the foldable paddle, which attachment loop is usable with an insertion stylet to help position the electrode array during implantation.