Numerical Study on Electrode Design for Rodent Deep Brain Stimulation With Implantations Cranial to Targeted Nuclei

The globus pallidus internus and the subthalamic nucleus are common targets for deep brain stimulation to alleviate symptoms of Parkinson's disease and dystonia. In the rodent models, however, their direct targeting is hindered by the relatively large dimensions of applied electrodes. To reduce the neurological damage, the electrodes are usually implanted cranial to the nuclei, thus exposing the non-targeted brain regions to large electric fields and, in turn, possible undesired stimulation effects. In this numerical study, we analyze the spread of the fields for the conventional electrodes and several modifications. As a result, we present a relatively simple electrode design that allows an efficient focalization of the stimulating field in the inferiorly located nuclei.

Automated summary

The globus pallidus internus and the subthalamic nucleus are common targets for deep brain stimulation in treating symptoms of Parkinson's disease and dystonia. However, the use of conventional electrodes may lead to undesired stimulation effects in non-targeted brain regions. A relatively simple electrode design can efficiently focalize the stimulating field in the lower located nuclei.