REFERENCE ELECTRODE APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR NEUROSTIMULATION IMPLANTS

摘要

An implantable apparatus and method are provided for use in conjunction with an implantable neurostimulation signal generator that provides an electrical stimulation signal to an active electrode. In auditory stimulation applications, the apparatus includes at least one anchor member having a distal end portion for directly contacting a patient's cranial bone and an electrically conductive portion extending from the distal end portion to a contact location proximal to the distal end portion. An electrical connection line may be electrically interconnected at a first end to the contact location of the anchor member and electrically interconnected at a second end to an implantable auditory neurostimulation signal generator to define a reference electrode.