Importance

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Abstract

A connector for establishing an external connection with multiple-conductor implantable leads. The connector body is generally cylindrical in shape and includes a unique twist lock design. The cylindrical connector body has two sections which rotate axially with respect to one another, from an `open` position to a `closed` position. Each of the sections has a longitudinal slot therein extending along its surface parallel to the cylindrical axis of the connector. In the `open` position, the slots in the respective sections are in alignment, forming a single longitudinal opening. The opening is keyed to accept an elongated end piece from a lead stylet, the end piece being attached to the end of the implantable electrode. The end piece supports the end of the lead such that the multiple, spaced apart electrical contacts disposed on the lead are exposed on at least one side. The cylindrical body has similarly spaced apart contacts disposed therein, such that when the stylet end piece is placed into the longitudinal opening in the connector, the contacts on the supported lead are brought into contact with the corresponding contacts disposed within the connector body. The end piece is secured inside the connector body by twisting the sections of the connector body into their `closed` position, so that the respective sets of spaced apart contacts are held in firm contact with each other. As the sections of the cylindrical connector body are twisted into the `closed` position, a downward pressure is exerted mechanically on the end piece to ensure good electrical contact.

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First Claim