Model-Based Vestibular Afferent Stimulation: Evaluating Selective Electrode Locations and Stimulation Waveform Shapes.

ABSTRACT: A dysfunctional vestibular system can be a severe detriment to the quality of life of a patient. Recent studies have shown the feasibility for a vestibular implant to restore rotational sensation via electrical stimulation of vestibular ampullary nerves. However, the optimal stimulation site for selective elicitation of the desired nerve is still unknown. We realized a finite element model on the basis of μCT scans of a human inner ear and incorporated naturally distributed, artificial neural trajectories. A well-validated neuron model of myelinated fibers was incorporated to predict nerve responses to electrical stimulation. Several virtual electrodes were placed in locations of interest inside the bony labyrinth (intra-labyrinthine) and inside the temporal bone, near the target nerves (e

SUBMITTER: Schier P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6125370 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature