Experience with implanted electrodes at Rancho Los Amigos Hospital.

Implanted units, manufactured by Medtronic, Inc., have been implanted in 31 patients for treatment of drop-foot. The principal problem encountered in this series is inflammatory reaction, which was observed in 7 patients and was serious enough in 5 to require removal. Theree have been no failures of the implanted equipment for periods of up to 7.3 years, although there is currently a question in 1 patient. There has also been no documented damage to the nerve due to chronic stimulation. Fine wire electrodes have been implanted intraneurally in a series of animals and in 3 patients. Preliminary results look encouraging, and this approach seems to hold considerable promise for a new generation of electrode design.