Document Type
Dissertation
Date of Award
12-31-2022
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering - (Ph.D.)
Department
Biomedical Engineering
First Advisor
Mesut Sahin
Second Advisor
Xianlian Alex Zhou
Third Advisor
Saikat Pal
Fourth Advisor
Catherine E. Myers
Fifth Advisor
Ozlem Gunal
Abstract
The hearing quality provided by cochlear implants are poorly predicted by computer simulations. A realistic cochlear anatomy is crucial for the accuracy of predictions. In this study, the standard multipolar stimulation paradigms are revisited and Rattay’s Activating Function is evaluated in a finite element model of a realistic cochlear geometry that is based on µ-CT images and a commercial lead. The stimulation thresholds across the cochlear fibers were investigated for monopolar, bipolar, tripolar, and a novel (distant) bipolar electrode configuration using an active compartmental nerve model based on Schwartz-Eikhof-Frijns membrane dynamics. The results suggest that skipping of the stimulation point from the vicinity of the cathodic electrode to distant fibers, especially to the low frequency (apical) region of the basilar membrane that is most critical to hearing, occurs more often with monopolar stimulation than other electrode configurations. Bipolar and tripolar electrodes near the apical region did not provide a large threshold margin either before the stimulation skips over distant fibers. On the other hand, the threshold margin could be improved by proper selection of the electrode for the return current with bipolar stimulation, a technique named here as distant bipolar. The results also demonstrate the significance of having a realistic cochlear geometry in computer models for accurate interpretation for multipolar stimulation paradigms. More selective and focal stimulation may be possible by designing the electrode carrier shape and positioning of the current return electrodes more strategically. This is needed particularly in the apical turn of the cochlea where the current stimulation methods are the least selective.
Recommended Citation
Cakmak, Ozan, "Improving the stimulation selectivity in the human cochlea by strategic selection of the current return electrode" (2022). Dissertations. 1634.
https://digitalcommons.njit.edu/dissertations/1634
Included in
Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering Commons, Neuroscience and Neurobiology Commons
