Epidural Electrodes for FES Applications

An implantable, multi-channel epidural electrode for spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is to bedeveloped which will have improved installation and operational features compared to the current stateof the art. The most common applications for SCS is the treatment of chronic, intractable pain, andvascular insufficiency (Europe). The significant failure rate and reduced therapeutic effect for earlyelectrode designs was due to lead migration and proper placement. Multi-contact systems were laterdeveloped to minimize the number of surgeries required to reposition electrodes. Today's electrodeshave up to eight contacts, however, lead migration and placement is still a problem. In addition to leadmigration, mechanical failures and the limited number of active contacts available with contemporaryleads has limited the therapeutic effectiveness of SCS. It would be a significant benefit to SCS patientsif more robust, reliable and higher current density electrodes could be provided. We intend to rely uponour experience in producing cardiac pacing leads and other stimulation electrodes to develop a newepidural electrode which utilizes materials, manufacturing processes, and design techniques resulting inan electrode with significantly improved characteristics.