Apparatus for Implanting Neural Stimulation Leads

Minimally invasive surgical instruments and procedures introducing neural stimulation leads comprise an inner member and an outer member and provide for a convenient coupling of an external stimulator lead at the inner member handle for application of test stimuli to nerves and tissue proximate the distal end of the inner member. A conductive inner member shaft proximal end extends into or proximally through the non-conductive handle and is configured to provide an inner member connector within or extending proximally to the handle for connection with a test stimulator. The inner member shaft is electrically conductive to conduct such test stimuli to nerves and tissue proximate the exposed shaft distal end. The outer member is preferably non-conductive and may thereby electrically insulate the shaft body proximal to the exposed shaft distal end. Ergonomically shaped inner member handles, caps, and inner member-outer member interlocking mechanisms are disclosed.