Abstract

An improved system and method that is capable of delivering multiple electrode assemblies to predetermined implant sites within a body is disclosed. The system includes an elongated member such as an introducer sheath. The introducer includes an elongated channel along at least a distal end portion of the introducer. The elongated channel opens to the exterior surface of the introducer through an elongated slot. One or more electrode assemblies may be retained within the elongated channel such that the leads exit the introducer via the elongated slot. The elongated introducer further includes a lumen that is in fluid communication with channel through openings, or gaps. The electrode assemblies are loaded within the channel at predetermined positions with respect to the openings. A distal end of a stiffening member such as a stylet may then be advanced within the lumen and through a selected one of the openings to engage an electrode assembly. The distal end of the stylet, along with the electrode assembly, is pushed in a distal direction within the channel until the electrode assembly exits the channel at a predetermined implant site. The stylet is then de-coupled from the electrode assembly, and the distal end is again retracted into the lumen. The distal end of the stiffening member may be re-directed into a different opening to engage a second electrode assembly. After the introducer is repositioned at a second implant site, the second electrode assembly may be deployed in a manner similar to that discussed above. The process may be repeated to deploy an array of electrodes. According to one aspect of the invention, the stylet distal end is canted to extend from the lumen of the introducer into the channel.