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The novel design utilizes an array of electrodes each of which individually penetrates through a separate small hole in the cranium.
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Description of Technology This technology offers a cortical electrode array which may be implanted without requiring an extensive craniotomy or the removal of a portion of the cranium. The novel design utilizes an array of electrodes each of which individually penetrates through a separate small hole in the cranium. The array may be placed in a recess carved out of the outer surface of the patient's cranium but not extending entirely through the thickness of the cranium thereby enabling the array to be flush with the outside of the cranium while not requiring a craniotomy. Only the array of holes extend through the cranium to receive the electrodes which may be placed in direct contact with brain tissue or dura mater. This electrode array may be used to stimulate, monitor or record neurological activity and may be used over short period as well as over long periods of time for chronic or extended treatment or recording. For stimulation, the electrode array may be used therapeutically for treating the tremor associated with Parkinson's disease, dystonia, central pain, tinnitus and other thalamo-cortical dysrhythmias such as OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), schizoaffective disorders and manic/depressive syndrome. The electrode array may also be used to monitor and record neurological activity in the brain. Recording brain activity can be useful in analyzing and treating abnormal neurological activity or diseases. Likewise, immediate monitoring of activity in the brain can potentially be used to control prosthetics. Electrode array implants typically requires a large craniotomy which is an intensive procedure involving health risks and extended healing time. This new cortical electrode array not only eliminates the need for a craniotomy by being sunken into the recess formed in the cranium, but it can also be discreetly placed in a patient's head and obscured by replacing the section of scalp over the base of the electrode array. The device is thus highly protected and less vulnerable to damage. This superior solution, both with respect to appearance and safety, results in an array that is well suited for long term use.