An anatomically based model of small intestine excitation.

Electrical and magnetic fields are generated by the smooth muscle's electrical activity in the walls of the gastrointestinal system. These fields can be measured on the torso surface. We present a computational model that is capable of simulating the electrical activity occurring within the small intestine. Finite elements were used to represent the geometry of the small intestine. A finer resolution finite difference mesh was defined within this geometrical mesh and used to solve the equations governing the activation of the intestinal smooth muscle. Initial simulations were performed to illustrate the spread of potential along the small intestine. With further development this model will provide a basis for understanding and interpreting noninvasive magnetic measurements from intestinal smooth muscle.