Modelling selective activation of small myelinated nerve fibres using a monopolar point electrode

Med Biol Eng Comput. 1995 Nov;33(6):762-8. doi: 10.1007/BF02523007.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Computer Simulation*
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy / methods*
  • Electrodes, Implanted
  • Humans
  • Mathematics
  • Models, Neurological*
  • Nerve Fibers, Myelinated / physiology*