Abstract
This paper deals with the DC offset currents generated by a platinum electrode matrix during biphasic stimulation. A fully automated test bench evaluates the nanoampere range DC offset currents in a realistic and comprehensive scenario by using platinum electrodes in a saline solution as a load for the stimulator. Measurements are performed on different stimulation patterns for single or dual hexagonal stimulation sites operating simultaneously and alternately. The effectiveness of the return electrode presence in reducing the DC offset current is considered. Experimental results show how for a defined nominal injected charge, the generated DC offset currents differ depending on the stimulation patterns, frequency, current amplitude, and pulse width of a biphasic signal.
Highlights
Neural stimulation shows reliable effectiveness in concrete cures where traditional medication is not as effective at reducing tremors in epilepsy or in restoring the sight in a person affected by retinitis pigmentosa
The DC offset current generated by platinum electrodes during biphasic stimulation in a saline bath is investigated firstly referring to the All Adjacent and the Hex Quasi-monopolar stimulation patterns for a single excitation site
To better highlight which one among current amplitude IPULSE and pulse width TPULSE contributes more to the DC offset current generation, the same data reported in Figure 9a,b are translated in Figure 10 into the respective nominal charge provided during biphasic stimulation, referring to a 50 Hz frequency
Summary
Neural stimulation shows reliable effectiveness in concrete cures where traditional medication is not as effective at reducing tremors in epilepsy or in restoring the sight in a person affected by retinitis pigmentosa. Based on the weakness of the signal to monitor (tens of nanoamperes), the DC offset current value in the literature usually refers to CAD simulation or measurements where the electrodes and the tissues are substituted with an equivalent quasi-static loss electric model constituted by passive components (resistor in series with a parallel capacitor and resistor) Such a DC offset current value reported in the literature relates to a defined stimulation pattern and a specific set of electrical parameters of the biphasic signal [12,13,14,15,16,17,18].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
