Introduction

The electric field (EF) around the active deep brain stimulation (DBS) contact is of interest for optimizing the therapeutic effect. We have previously developed a method for simulation and visualization of the EF. The aim of the project is to improve the software for quick and user friendly simulations.  

Methods

The ELMA software for brain model creation has been improved by adding quick ROI selection and transformation to an electrical conductivity map based on tissue classification through multiple slices of the preoperative MRI. These data are used as input for Comsol Multiphysics simulations of the EF. Two points along the position of the lead, as seen in the postoperative images, are used for correct placement in the brain model. Multiple DBS lead models are pre-programmed. The active contact and amplitude are user-selected.

Results

After a simulation the result is visualized with a user defined isolevel or isosurface superimposed on the patients preoperative MRI. An example is shown in Fig. 1. The 3389 lead is places in zona inserta (Zi) and contact 1 activated with 2 and 4 V respectively. An isolevel of 0.2 V/mm is used corresponding to a ~ 3-4 µm axon diameter when using a pulse length of 60 µs. More examples will be presented at the meeting.

Conclusion

The software for patient-specific simulations of EF around DBS electrodes has been improved for quicker simulations and more DBS leads. As a next step user friendly Apps will be implemented.