Apparatus and method for delivering a neurostimulator into the pterygopalatine fossa

Abstract

One aspect of the present disclosure includes a neurostimulator delivery apparatus. The apparatus includes a handle portion, an elongate shaft extending from the handle portion, and a distal deployment portion. The distal deployment portion is configured to releasably mate with a neurostimulator. The neurostimulator is sized and configured for implantation into a craniofacial region of a subject.

1 - 13 . (canceled) 
     
     
         14 . A method for deploying a neurostimulator in close proximity to a sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) of a subject, said method comprising the steps of:
 (a) providing a neurostimulator delivery apparatus and a neurostimulator releasably coupled to the neurostimulator delivery apparatus, the neurostimulator delivery apparatus comprising a handle portion, an elongate shaft extending from the handle portion, and an arcuate distal deployment portion;   (b) mating the distal deployment portion with a distal portion of a surgical tool already positioned in or about a craniofacial region;   (c) manipulating the neurostimulator so that an integral stimulation lead thereof progressively emerges from the distal deployment portion into close proximity with the SPG; and   (d) withdrawing the neurostimulator delivery apparatus from the subject;   wherein steps (c) and (d) are performed simultaneously.   
     
     
         15 . The method of  claim 14 , wherein said providing step further comprises the steps of:
 inserting a distal end of the integral stimulation lead into a splittable sheath of the distal deployment portion;   advancing the integral stimulation lead through the splittable sheath until a stimulator body of the neurostimulator is seated within a portion of the distal deployment portion; and   manipulating the neurostimulator so that the stimulator body is securely seated within the distal deployment portion.   
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 14 , wherein said mating step further comprises the steps of:
 providing a surgical tool having an insertion groove on the distal portion thereof; and   slidably engaging the distal deployment portion into contact with the insertion groove.   
     
     
         17 . The method of  claim 14 , wherein the craniofacial region is a PPF.