Modelling selective activation of small myelinated nerve fibres using a monopolar point electrode.
The aim of this study is to investigate theoretically the possibility for activation of small myelinated nerve fibres without activating larger ones when stimulating a nerve fibre bundle using a monopolar point electrode. Therefore, the sensitivity of excitation and blocking threshold currents of nerve fibres to fibre diameter, electrode-fibre distance and pulse duration has been simulated by a computer model. A simple infinite, homogeneous volume conductor and a cathodal point source were used in combination with a model representing the electrical properties of a myelinated nerve fibre. The results show that selective activation of small myelinated fibres may be possible in a region at some distance from the electrode.
Rijkhoff
N J
NJ
Department of Urology, University Hospital Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
Holsheimer
J
J
Debruyne
F M
FM
Wijkstra
H
H
D003198:Computer Simulation; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D004567:Electrodes, Implanted; D006801:Humans; D008433:Mathematics; D008959:Models, Neurological; D009413:Nerve Fibers, Myelinated / Q000502:physiology*