title: Optimization of a wearable pudendal nerve stimulator using computational models.
abstract: After spinal cord injury, lower urinary tract functions may be disrupted. Trans-rectal stimulation of the pudendal nerve may enable patients to regain these functions via minimally invasive means. Using a finite element model of a wearable trans-rectal stimulator in the pelvic region, and a computational model of mammalian nerve fiber, various electrode configurations and the corresponding required current levels were studied. A configuration requiring considerably lower current level than previously reported was identified. For this configuration, the strength-duration curve was simulated and the effect of different stimulus waveforms on the required current was studied. In addition, the study examined whether a multi-electrode device could selectively activate different terminal branches of the pudendal nerve.
authors.forename: Arsam N
authors.initials: AN
authors.lastname: Shiraz
authors.forename: Brian
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Leaker
authors.forename: Andreas
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Demosthenous
mesh_terms: D003198:Computer Simulation; D004558:Electric Stimulation / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004566:Electrodes; D004867:Equipment Design; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D010388:Pelvis / Q000502:physiology; D060525:Pudendal Nerve / Q000502:physiology*; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D001743:Urinary Bladder / Q000378:metabolism