Bidirectional helical electrode for nerve stimulation

Abstract From the Canadian patent

A circumneural electrode assembly having a pair of spaced-apart and oppositely directed helical portions which can be opened by an insertion tool to fit the assembly over a peripheral or cranial nerve. One or more conductive electrodes on the inner surfaces of the helical portions intimately contact the nerve surface to deliver electrical stimulating signals or, alternatively, to block nerve conduction or to sense evoked potentials. The surgically implanted assembly is stable in position on the nerve, and is installed with a minimum of nerve manipulation and possible resulting trauma. The assembly preserves the advantages of previously disclosed spiral electrodes while greatly, simplifying …