Multielectrode Cuff For Extraneural Selective Stimulation Of Nerve Fibers

Abstract

A multielectrode nerve cuff for extraneural selective stimulation of nerve fibers has been developed. It consists of fourteen platinum stimulation electrodes embedded within a self-curling sheet of biocompatible isolation exhibiting a spiral transverse cross section. Development was based on results obtained by hystological examination of peripheral nerves planned to be stimulated and on models of excitation of myelinated nerve fibers. The number of stimulating electrodes which are activated depends on the diameter of the stimulated nerve. Nerves with greater diameter automatically activate more electrodes than thin ones.