Apparatus for implanting an electrical stimulation system and a paddle style electrical stimulation lead

摘要

In one embodiment, an introducer (10) is provided for implanting an electrical stimulation lead (50) to enable electrical stimulation of nerve tissue. The introducer (10) includes an outer sheath (12) and an inner penetrator (14). The outer sheath (12) is configured to accommodate insertion of the electrical stimulation lead (50) through the outer sheath (12) and may be inserted into a human body near the nerve tissue. The inner penetrator (14) is removably housed within the outer sheath (12) and includes an inner channel (22) configured to accommodate a guide wire (46). The inner penetrator (14) may be advanced along the guide wire (46) to a desired location relative to the nerve tissue and removed from the outer sheath (12) leaving the outer sheath (12) substantially in position for insertion of the electrical stimulation lead (50) through the outer sheath (12) into position proximate the nerve tissue.