METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPLANTING AN ELECTRICAL STIMULATION LEAD USING A FLEXIBLE INTRODUCER

摘要

One embodiment is an introducer for implanting a paddle style electrical stimulation lead to enable electrical stimulation of nerve tissue. The introducer includes an outer sheath and an inner penetrator. The outer sheath may accommodate insertion of a paddle style electrical stimulation lead. The inner penetrator is removably housed within the outer sheath and includes multiple inner channels to accommodate a guide wire, a tip end having a shape and size substantially conforming to the outer sheath. The inner penetrator may be advanced along the guide wire to a desired location relative tot eh nerve tissue and removed from the outer sheath leaving the outer sheath substantially in position for insertion of the paddle style lead. At least a portion of the transition regions of the inner penetrator may flex to substantially follow flexures in the guide wire during advancement of the inner penetrator.