Title:  Evaluation of Magnetic Stimulation of Cochlear Neurons using Micro-scale Coils

Committee: 

Dr. Bhatti, Advisor        

Dr. Butera, Chair

Dr. Peterson

Abstract:  

The objective of the proposed research is evaluation of magnetic stimulation as an alternative to direct electrical stimulation in the cochlea. Based on an earlier study by our group reporting that appropriately driven implanted inductors can achieve auditory activation in a feline model, micro-scale coils are modeled and the induced electric fields that modulate the target neuron activity are calculated using Finite Element Analysis (FEA). A single inductor as well as an array of inductors are modeled to study heating and power consumed by these inductors. Additionally alternative coil designs are investigated to reduce design complexity and power consumption. Both single coils and coil arrays will be fabricated and tested. Furthermore, magnetic stimulation will be compared to conventional electrical stimulation both in terms of comparing the gradient of electric field with the second derivative of the electric potential via FEA, as well as through testing. Finally, feasibility of magnetically stimulating the vestibular stimulation is also explored.