Computational simulation of transcranial current stimulation: Based on an image-derived head model

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been applied in numerous brain and neurological studies over recent years. However, the understand about the mechanisms of tDCS is limited. This paper presents the method to obtain a realistic CT imaging-derived finite element computional model through reverse engineering. The model can be used to analyze the distributions of electric field in tDCS with different electrode configuration. Based on the model, current density distributions of tDCS with two different size of electrodes were calculated to compare the focality and stimulation depth. The results shows that high current density were found under the electrodes, and electrode configuration effects current density distribution significantly. The conclusion may guide the optimization of tDCS parameters for clinical applications.