Systems and methods for loading a pre-curved electrode array onto a straightening member

摘要

An exemplary system for loading a pre-curved electrode array onto a straightening member includes a loading tool and a straightening member. An exemplary loading tool may include a body and first and second flexible arms each having a fixed end connected to the body and a free end opposite the fixed end. The first and second flexible arms may define a straightening channel configured to constrain a pre-curved electrode array in a straightened configuration. The first and second flexible arms may be further configured to flex away from each other to receive the pre-curved electrode array into the straightening channel. The straightening member is configured to be inserted into the pre-curved electrode array while the pre-curved electrode array is in the straightened configuration and retain the pre-curved electrode array in the straightened configuration after the pre-curved electrode array is removed from the loading tool. Corresponding methods are also described.

主权项

1. A system for loading a lead comprising a pre-curved electrode array onto a straightening member, the system comprising:
a loading tool comprising
a body,a first flexible arm having a fixed end connected to the body and a free end opposite the fixed end, anda second flexible arm having a fixed end connected to the body and a free end opposite the fixed end, wherein
the first flexible arm and the second flexible arm define a straightening channel, andthe first flexible arm and the second flexible arm flex away from each other to receive the pre-curved electrode array into the straightening channel and return from being flexed away from each other to a non-flexed position after the pre-curved electrode array is positioned within the straightening channel to constrain the pre-curved electrode array in a straightened configuration within the straightening channel; and a straightening member configured to be inserted into the pre-curved electrode array while the pre-curved electrode array is constrained in the straightened configuration and retain the pre-curved electrode array in the straightened configuration after the pre-curved electrode array is removed from the loading tool.