FLAT INTERFACE NERVE ELECTRODE AND A METHOD FOR USE

摘要

A flat interface nerve electrode (10) is provided along with a method for use. The electrode provides a plurality of conductive elements (12) embedded in a non-conductive cuff structure, which acts to gently and non-evasively redefine the geometry of a nerve through the application of a force so as to apply pressure to a nerve in a defined range, namely from 2 to 40 mmHG and more preferably from 15 - 30 mmHG and most preferably from 15 mmHG to 20 mmHG. This range is selected to minimize the reduction of blood flow within the tissue, which preferably is at least 70 % of the initial value, more preferably 90 % of the initial value. The cuff has an opening, which is elongated relative to the diameter of the nerve to which it is applied. Preferably, the cuff is constructed from an elastic bio-compatible material having top and bottom beam members configured to define a nerve opening.