A neuroengineering model of extradural cortical stimulation

In this chapter, a computer model of how ECS might work is presented and discussed. A word of caution is warranted. Models like the present one are still too coarse and rely on poorly defined electrical-geometrical and cytomorphometric values in the human cortex (e.g. fiber diameter distribution, fiber orientation, degree of myelination, ion channel density, neuron position), to which a large inter/intra-subject variability may be added. Duration and amplitude of stimuli can vary markedly during the parameter-search stage and these models are yet to explore the resulting effects. Finally, since the gyri are curvilinear, results of excitation change along the course of the folding pattern. Nevertheless, computer models as this one may contribute towards unraveling the mechanisms and ultimately help to improve the clinical effect of ECS.