Integrated wire carrier for electrode array

摘要

A method for forming a cochlear electrode array with a plurality of electrodes which are spaced so as to stimulate sites within a cochlea includes shaping a sheet of electrically conductive material to form a support structure and a plurality of electrodes, in which the electrodes are tethered to the support structure at the spacing of the cochlear electrode array. A cochlear lead includes a flexible body that has frictional characteristics that vary about its circumference. A cochlear lead includes a flexible body with a first region and a second region with different surface textures. This generates differential sliding forces during insertion of the cochlear lead which influence a motion of the cochlear lead during insertion. The cochlear lead having an electrode array with varying stiffness along its length is also provided.

主权项

1. A method for managing wires within a cochlear electrode array, the method comprising:
providing an integrated wire carrier having a longitudinal axis and having an aperture passing therethough; passing a plurality of wires through the aperture; forming an electrode mechanically and electrically attached to a wire within the plurality of wires; and bending wings of the electrode to shape the plurality of wires in a wire bundle; wherein the wings further comprising a number of features to assist in securing the electrode in place; wherein the number of features to assist in securing the electrode in place comprise a hole formed through a thickness of one of said wings.