System and method for making and using a lead introducer for an implantable electrical stimulation system

摘要

A lead introducer includes a multi-piece insertion needle insertable into a splitable member. The multi-piece insertion needle includes an outer insertion needle that defines an open channel that extends along substantially entirely a length of the outer insertion needle and an inner insertion needle configured and arranged for insertion into the open channel of the outer insertion needle. The splitable member includes at least two pull-apart tabs and at least one weakened region extending along at least a portion of a length of the splitable member from between the at least two pull-apart tabs. The at least one weakened region is configured and arranged for separating when the at least two pull-apart tabs are pulled apart.

主权项

1. A lead introducer comprising:
a multi-piece insertion needle comprising
an outer insertion needle comprising a proximal hub and defining an open channel that extends along an entire length of the outer insertion needle and the proximal hub, andan inner insertion needle comprising a proximal hub and defining a lumen that extends from the proximal hub along the inner insertion needle, the inner insertion needle configured and arranged for insertion into the open channel of the outer insertion needle; and a splitable member comprising a proximal hub and defining a lumen configured and arranged for receiving at least a portion of the multi-piece insertion needle, the splitable member comprising
at least two pull-apart tabs disposed on the proximal hub of the splitable member, andat least one weakened region extending along at least a portion of a length of the splitable member from between the at least two pull-apart tabs, the at least one weakened region configured and arranged for separating when the at least two pull-apart tabs are pulled apart from one another in directions approximately orthogonal to the splitable member.