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Abstract

An implantable electrode system for establishing electrical contact with nerve tissue. The outer substrate of the electrode is a semi-rigid, body compatible, insulating material such as a chronically implantable polymer. The outer substrate is molded as a single structure having a central spine along the longitudinal axis of the electrode. A plurality of fingers extend orthogonally from the central spine, and are bent circularly about a radius of curvature approximating that of the nerve to be contacted. The fingers of the electrode are spread by the retractable channel of the insertion tool during the implant procedure. The retractable channel is placed over the selected nerve and a retraction knob on the handle of the insertion tool is moved in a proximal direction causing the electrode to be ejected on to the nerve. The handle of the insertion tool is curved to require a minimum of exposure of the nerve tissue.

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First Claim