Tissue stimulation device with distal and proximal return electrode

Abstract

Typically, stimulation therapy is provided using one or more implanted stimulation electrodes. Anatomy and treatment protocols can vary greatly—it is therefore advantageous to provide a highly configurable stimulation system. A tissue stimulation system is provided including an implantable end and a stimulation energy source, the implantable end including: an elongated substrate; one or more stimulation electrodes; and one or more proximal return electrodes; the stimulation energy source including: one or more distal return electrodes, disposed distantly from the one or more stimulation electrodes; and a pulse energy controller including a ratio controller, wherein: the proximal return electrodes and the distal return electrodes are configured as an electrical return for the stimulation electrodes; the ratio controller modifying the electrical potential and/or current ratio of the first part to the second part. A substantially transverse electric field may be provided. In addition, a ratio controller may also be provided.