Patent ID: 8571686

Claim:
An implantable electrode comprising an electrode line having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein said electrode line comprises an electrode head and a fixing situated near, but proximal to, said distal end, wherein the fixing includes at least one first structural element having a spatial shape that affords a hold in tissue and maintains electrical contact between the electrode and the tissue in a deployed state; wherein the at least one first structural element comprises a biodegradable material, and wherein the material includes a magnesium-based biodegradable alloy; wherein said electrode line further comprises a central axis and wherein the at least one first structural element extends radially outward from said central axis; and wherein said at least one first structural element comprises a holding force such that said holding force decreases over time when said biodegradable material exhibits gradual breakdown; wherein the fixing further includes a second structural element of a bioresistant material, configured as at least a part of the fixing which at least temporarily contributes to a level of a holding force inch exists between the fixing and the tissue; and, wherein the second structural element includes a mesh-form or grating-like or sponge-like basic structure having a plurality of pores; wherein said second structural element comprises said biodegradable material situated in said plurality of pores; wherein said plurality of pores extend radially inward toward said central axis of said electrode line; and, wherein said holding force of said second structural element comprising said biodegradable material situated in said plurality of pores increases over time when said biodegradable material in said plurality of pores exhibits gradual breakdown, such that one or more of said plurality of pores are cleared enabling the tissue to row into the cleared one or more plurality of pores.