US Patent 10398890 Introduction of medical lead into patient

Leads having distal electrodes may be used in application of test stimulation for purposes of implanting a lead having a fixation element distal to an electrode array. The fixation element is proximal the distal electrode. Accordingly, the distal electrode may be advanced beyond a distal end of an introducer while the fixation element may be retained in a retracted configuration by the introducer. If the test signals applied by the distal electrode indicate that the distal electrode is in the desired location of the patient, a series of markings on the lead may be used to facilitate placement of the electrode array at the location previously occupied by the distal electrode; i.e. the desired location of the patient. The electrodes of the electrode array may then be used to provide therapy to the patient.