Fabrication of large arrays of cortical electrodes for use in man

Techniques are described for fabrication of electrode arrays for stimulation and/or recording from a human cerebral cortex. These arrays may be neurosurgically inserted (with or without a Penrose drain) in the course of a conventional craniotomy or craniectomy, and are easily removed without reopening the incision. Termination of the connecting wires in a special percutaneous pedestal has also permitted chronic implantation. The contacts and connecting wires are made of pure platinum embedded in a Teflon ribbon-cable matrix. The choice of materials combines biological acceptability, electrochemical stability, and integrity of the insulation, but imposes special fabrication procedures.