Models of selective stimulation with a flat interface nerve electrode for standing neuroprosthetic systems.

The long-term goal of our research is to restore standing function via selective activation of target fascicles in the femoral nerve by a flat interface nerve electrode (FINE). The optimal number and location of contacts within a FINE had not been determined previously. A realistic three-dimensional finite element model based on a cross section of human femoral nerve and FINE is presented. Simulated voltages are applied as an extracellular field to the MRG double-cable axon model. Initial simulations indicate that optimal contacts may exist for each fascicular group but an acceptable selectivity may require nerve reshaping.