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Abstract

An apparatus for manufacture and method manufacturing of implantable, coiled electrodes that are integral with their associated conductor. Electrodes of differing selected sizes may be manufactured by the method described herein and mounted on a single catheter. The size of the electrodes may be selected to optimize electrode performance for sensing, stimulation or other purposes. The apparatus comprises a motor-driven winding mandrel. A tensioning device, mounted generally perpendicularly to the axis of rotation of the mandrel, controls tension in a wire being formed into a coiled electrode. A holding apparatus clamps a portion of the wire along the mandrel. In one embodiment, the holding apparatus comprises a sheath surrounding the mandrel. The mandrel fits into a hole in the sheath. By controlling the diameter of the hole with respect to the diameter of the mandrel, the radius of curvature of a bend between the coiled electrode and a straight part of the wire can be controlled. The coiled electrodes may be coated with materials such as titanium nitride, iridium oxide, or other materials to provide a fine surface structure or improved biocompatibility for the electrode.

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First Claim