Simulation of Epiretinal Prostheses: Evaluating Factors Affecting Stimulation Thresholds
Author Information
Author(s): Kasi Harsha, Willyan Hasenkamp, Gregoire Cosendai, Arnaud Bertsch, Philippe Renaud
Primary Institution: Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
Hypothesis
How do geometrical factors affect stimulation thresholds for epiretinal prostheses?
Conclusion
The simulation framework effectively predicts stimulation thresholds and impedances, emphasizing the importance of electrode proximity to the retina.
Supporting Evidence
- The simulation framework's predictions align well with existing clinical trial data.
- Threshold currents increase significantly with greater electrode-retina distances.
- Electrode geometry impacts the current required for retinal ganglion cell activation.
Takeaway
This study shows that the distance between electrodes and the retina matters a lot for making retinal implants work better.
Methodology
Finite element method (FEM) was used to estimate threshold currents based on a passive electric model of the retina.
Limitations
The study does not account for long-term effects of electrode implantation on retinal tissue.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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