Thin Bipolar Leads: A Solution to Problems with Coaxial Bipolar Designs

A new type of bipolar lead has been designed to be thinner and more reliable than the standard coaxial design. The new lead has passed numerous bench tests to ensure its reliability. Improved fatigue performance was shown during comparisons between the new type of coil (bifilar DFT [drawn filled tube]) and previous standard coils (trifilar MP35N). During the initial animal studies no reliability concerns were raised and stable electrode thresholds were measured. If success in the test process of this lead continues, a bipolar lead may soon be marketed with a size and reliability comparable to unipolar leads.