Cochlear Stimulation Device

摘要

A cochlear stimulation device comprising an electrode array designed to provide enhanced charge injection capacity necessary for neural stimulation. The electrode array comprises electrodes with high surface area or a fractal geometry and correspondingly high electrode capacitance and low electrical impedance. The resultant electrodes have a robust surface and sufficient mechanical strength to withstand physical stress vital for long term stability. The device further comprises wire traces having a multilayer structure which provides a reduced width for the conducting part of the electrode array. The cochlear prosthesis is attached by a grommet to the cochleostomy that is made from a single piece of biocompatible polymer. The device, designed to achieve optimum neural stimulation by appropriate electrode design, is a significant improvement over commercially available hand-built devices.

主权项

1. A cochlear electrode array adapted for cochlear stimulation comprising:
a polymer base layer; high density patterned metal traces deposited on said polymer base layer; electrodes deposited on said polymer base layer and said metal traces; a polymer top layer deposited on said polymer base layer and said electrodes and said metal traces; and a skirt comprising a more compliant polymer surrounding the array and extending beyond its edges; wherein said array has a soft tip containing said more compliant polymer; and wherein said array is curved into a helical shape to approximate the shape of the cochlea.