A surgically-implanted intramuscular electrode for an implantable neuromuscular stimulation system

An intramuscular electrode developed for functional neuromuscular stimulation applications, to be used in conjunction with a surgically implanted neuromuscular receiver-stimulator, is described. In vitro experiments indicate that the electrode will maintain a stable position, but is capable of being removed intact, if removal is necessary. When tested in an unbuffered saline environment at the maximum stimulation parameters, the stimulating surface experienced minimal nonprogressive corrosion. A preliminary animal evaluation, comparing four surgically implanted intramuscular electrodes with four epimysial electrodes, is discussed. The intramuscular electrodes all operated properly, producing functional responses indistinguishable from those obtained with epimysial electrodes